Uber to relaunch auto service in India to take on Ola

Uber is re-launching its ‘AUTO’ service in India, almost two years after shutting down the offering in March 2016, starting with Bangalore and Pune.

Uber's arch-rival Ola already offers auto service through its app which is currently operational across 73 cities with over 1.2 lakh autos associated with the company.

An Uber spokesperson said the company had “paused” the service “to see how that side of India’s transport ecosystem evolves”.

“Auto rickshaws are ubiquitous to mobility options in many Indian cities. To expand transportation choices for our riders, we are excited to launch AUTO in Bengaluru and Pune,” the spokesperson told PTI.

In its previous attempt, Uber’s AUTO offering was available in New Delhi, Coimbatore, Indore and Bhubaneshwar.

The spokesperson added that AUTO will include all safety features available for Uber cab rides and riders will be able to pay via cash, Paytm and debit/credit cards. Uber will only on-board licensed, existing auto-drivers who have been screened and accredited by the authorities and every driver partner on AUTO will be required to submit valid government documents before they are given access to the Uber app, the spokesperson said.