New Delhi– Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi has called India the ride-hailing giant’s third-largest mobility market and a “must-win” for the company, underscoring the country’s central role in Uber’s long-term global strategy.
Speaking on a podcast with Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath, Khosrowshahi described Uber’s growth in India as “spectacular,” adding: “India is an absolute must-win for Uber, not just tomorrow, but 10 years from now.”
He noted that while Ola was once Uber’s main rival, Rapido has emerged as a stronger competitor. “The real test of the business isn’t how fast you can grow if you’re spending. It’s actually how fast you can grow while you’re profitable. And I think Rapido is a long way away from that. But they’ve been innovative,” he said.
Khosrowshahi highlighted electrification as the cornerstone of Uber’s strategy in India, saying electric and autonomous vehicles will ultimately transform mobility. “If we’re going to lead here long-term, EVs have to be central. Autonomous and electric vehicles will transform mobility, but the innovation curve takes time,” he added.
He also urged startups to focus on niche markets first to ensure product-market fit before scaling, emphasizing the importance of sustainable growth for long-term investor value.
On the broader travel industry, Khosrowshahi said booking platforms have stagnated, with the real opportunity lying in artificial intelligence. “I don’t think that the travel industry has innovated that much. The booking experience looks quite similar, and it frustrates me,” he said. He predicted AI agents will soon reshape travel planning by filtering choices, comparing prices, and offering more personalized recommendations. “You want an agent that’s a combination of explore and exploit… not just showing you what you’ve liked in the past, but surprising you with new choices as well.”
Khosrowshahi framed Uber as more than just a ride-hailing service. “I really want Uber to be like that operating system for your everyday life. We make your everyday life a little bit easier,” he said, noting tough strategic calls such as Uber’s 2020 decision to sell its food delivery business, Uber Eats India, to Zomato in order to double down on mobility.
Looking ahead, he said autonomous driving is inevitable and will ultimately benefit society, though the transition will take time as technology, infrastructure, and drivers adapt. (Source: IANS)
