Rapido, a leading ride-hailing startup backed by WestBridge, has unveiled ambitious plans to expand its services to 500 cities across India. This strategic move, set to commence in February, will initially focus on key states such as Karnataka, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Rajasthan, before further extending to regions including Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.

This expansion follows a successful funding round last September, where the company secured a substantial $200 million, cementing its status as a unicorn in the mobility sector. Currently, Rapido facilitates an impressive 3.6 million rides per day, catering to the growing need for reliable and budget-friendly transportation solutions across urban and semi-urban landscapes.

Expressing excitement about the expansion, Rapido’s co-founder, Pavan Guntupalli, said, “With over 1.3 crore Captains earning more than ₹15,000 crore through our platform, this expansion to 500 cities underscores our dedication to empowering people and creating a more connected India.”

Rapido’s business model goes beyond providing convenient transport—it plays a crucial role in generating employment opportunities for thousands of individuals who operate as "Captains" on the platform. The expansion is expected to further contribute to economic empowerment and improved connectivity, making transportation more accessible for millions of people across the country.

As Rapido embarks on this large-scale growth, it aims to solidify its position in the highly competitive mobility market, offering enhanced services and greater coverage across India. The company’s mission remains focused on delivering efficient, affordable, and dependable transport solutions that cater to both everyday commuters and the growing gig economy.