Rapido Pilots Non-AC Cabs in Bengaluru to Cut Commuter Costs

The Bengaluru-based ride-hailing startup Rapido has started to test a feature that allows users to book non-air-conditioned cabs at lower rates. Currently available in beta form, the feature gives users the choice of fare plans for two types of cars, one with an AC and one without. Despite this being a first for any ride-hailing app, Rapido appears to be doing so quietly and without much fanfare.

The initiative emerges when numerous riders have been expressing their dissatisfaction online with drivers who won't activate the AC, even though they're charging more for trips. Rapido's newest feature may provide a way to address both the complaints and the apparent service shortfalls they reflect by making the pricing of its rides align better with the kind of rides you're getting.

Addressing Driver Concerns Through Innovation

In the month before last, drivers linked with the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union started a "No-AC" campaign in Hyderabad. They protested against the falling per-kilometer pay across the platforms Ola, Uber, and Rapido. The protest attempt highlighted the tension that's always present between service expectations and the gig worker's budget. Gig work is often said to be a means for working people to remain economically afloat. The reality is that many gig workers are laboring just to stay alive.

Rapido could be tackling both sides of the issue with its new non-AC option. This helps drivers avoid the expense of burning fossil fuels to power air conditioning, and it helps the price-sensitive commuter by providing a more affordable option. Integrating driver concerns into platform features may set Rapido on a path toward more inclusive innovation in the gig economy.

Aggressive Expansion Backed by Strong Metrics

Founded in 2015, Rapido built its user base initially through bike taxis and auto-rickshaws and expanded into the cab segment in December 2023. It was on a rapid growth trajectory. In March 2025, the platform outpaced rivals Ola and Uber in app downloads.

The company cut its FY24 losses to just over INR 370 crore, a reduction of 45 percent, while its operating revenue soared by 1.5 times to INR 648.1 crore.

Future Plans Point to Broader Ambitions

In keeping with its ambitious growth, Rapido is said to be looking to raise 250 crore rupees from Prosus to fund further expansion and other new initiatives. The company has said it plans to expand to 500 cities, has made proposals to set up a women-only "Pink" bike service in Karnataka, and has dropped hints about entering the food delivery sector in order to compete with much bigger players.

Non-AC cabs refine what Rapido has to offer Indian riders, allow Rapido to better compete in India’s ride-hailing market, and make Rapido more relevant to a service that Indian riders can actually use.