Namma Yatri, the Bengaluru-based ride-hailing app, is setting its sights on expanding its reach across India. Known for its unique zero-commission model that prioritizes driver earnings, the company is actively seeking funds to fuel this ambitious expansion plan. Unlike traditional ride-hailing platforms, Namma Yatri allows drivers to retain 100% of the fare, fostering a more equitable ecosystem.

The company's compliance-first approach, while lauded by some, presents a unique challenge: it tends to slow down expansion efforts. Namma Yatri seems willing to accept this trade-off, prioritizing adherence to regulations over rapid growth. This commitment to regulatory compliance has become a defining characteristic as it navigates an increasingly regulated landscape.

Namma Yatri's business model stands in stark contrast to major players like Ola and Uber. Instead of taking a commission on each ride, Namma Yatri charges drivers a subscription fee, ensuring a consistent revenue stream for the platform while maximizing driver earnings. This model has resonated well with drivers, fostering loyalty and a sense of ownership. The subscription is available on a daily or per-trip basis. Namma Yatri charges riders only Rs 10 over and above the government-stipulated fare.

The app's origins trace back to 2022, when it emerged as a startup called 'Yatri', addressing the lack of convenient and reliable auto-rickshaw hailing options. Conceptualized by Vimal Kumar, founder of Juspay, and led by Shan M S and Magizhan Selvan, Namma Yatri has grown into a significant player in the Indian mobility market. As of February 2024, the platform had amassed 5 million users and generated $50 million in revenue for drivers. In July 2024, Moving Tech, Namma Yatri's parent company, secured $11 million in a pre-Series A funding round, with participation from Blume Ventures, Antler, and Google.

Namma Yatri's commitment extends beyond just financial empowerment. Through initiatives like "Mahila Shakti," launched in collaboration with Bengaluru police and NGOs, the company aims to empower women from diverse backgrounds by providing them with training and support to become proficient electric auto-rickshaw drivers.

Looking ahead, Namma Yatri plans to integrate various transport modes, including public transport and ferries, to create affordable and seamless mass mobility. By scaling the zero-commission model on an open network and integrating public transport, the company aims to create a future-ready and inclusive mobility ecosystem that benefits everyone. The company is also planning to launch integrated solutions for auto and metro services in cities including Bengaluru, Chennai and Kolkata.

While Namma Yatri is primarily focused on the Indian market, particularly Tier II and III cities, the company has acknowledged receiving international interest, suggesting its model could potentially be replicated in other regions. Currently, Namma Yatri is in talks with partners in several northern, western, and eastern states, although specific cities have not yet been announced.