A Bengaluru-based Uber driver, only identified as Lokesh, has taken the plunge into entrepreneurship by launching his own ride-sharing app and marketing it to his Uber passengers. The interesting marketing strategy was shared by an X user called “The Bengaluru Man” highlighting that Lokesh's app, Nano Travels, is now competing with industry giants Uber and Ola.
The driver claims that his app has already attracted over 600 drivers, showcasing a feat in a city known for its cutthroat competition in the transportation sector. Nano Travels has also expanded its reach by launching the iOS version of its app, catering to Apple users as well.
“Peak Bengaluru: Mr Lokesh my Uber cab driver informed me that he has launched his own app to compete with Uber and Ola and already has more than 600 drivers on his app. Moreover, today they launched their IOS version for apple too,” the X user wrote sharing a photo of the app’s pamphlet that has their customer service number and email on it.
Peak Bengaluru: Mr Lokesh my uber cab driver informed me that he has launched his own app to compete with uber and ola and already has more than 600 drivers on his app.
Moreover, today they launched their IOS version for apple too. #Bengaluru #peakbengaluru@peakbengaluru pic.twitter.com/IGdiWItPG4— The Bengaluru Man (@BetterBengaluro) December 20, 2023
“Lokesh sounded very enterprising. Told this was his idea and company. Told about how he got the coding of the app done from a company and asked to call him if he needed a cab,” he explained.
One user said that he may have had an encounter with the same cab driver, recalling instances where he demonstrated an enterprising spirit.
“There was this Taxi driver Lokesh who once gave me a ride from the airport. He was very enterprising and asked me to call him in case I needed a ride to the airport and said he has a group of taxi drivers that work together. Wonder if it's the same guy,” the user shared.
Despite the positive comments, skepticism looms large. One user expressed doubts about the sustainability of Nano Travels' endeavour, suggesting that while entrepreneurship is commendable, success might be elusive in a crowded app-based transportation market.
“This business is tough with cut throughout competition,” the user said.
Others saw Lokesh's initiative as an example of real entrepreneurship, expressing hope for the success of Nano Travels in the face of competition.
“Surely would like to connect with him,” one encouraging comment read.
Ride-sharing cabs have become an integral and transformative aspect of urban transportation, especially in the traffic-marred Bengaluru.
But even giants like Uber and Ola sometimes are unable to offer commuters a convenient and efficient means of travel. The prices soar high and the wait time is sometimes too long.
Newer cab apps may help ease the pressure on existing companies (and take their business) and provide users more options to choose from when in a hurry.
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