I love Make in India products and start-ups, kind of a patriot that way. And this is the main reason I gave the Ola cab service a shot, despite Uber being more popular back when I downloaded the app.
And I say this with immense pride, that this is one company that can establish itself in the international market. I don’t any other company would’ve given Uber a run for money or rattled its cage the way Ola did.
They’ve been trying new things – Ola shuttle, Ola auto, Ola share and Ola micro – are some that I can think of. Ola Micro with the lowest cost at Rs 6/km was the best thing they came up with. However, it’s really difficult to get an Ola Micro. Consider yourself lucky when you find one or they may simply give you a “free” upgrade to Mini. This upgrade is questionable, as I am yet to figure out the final price that we pay is as per Ola Mini tariff or Ola micro. I’d be grateful if anyone can answer that.
Another masterstroke was the Ola boats during Chennai floods. An innovative and helpful gesture that won my heart and my loyalty for sure. Hats off to the team that came up with the hydra and executed it.
So far I haven’t had troubles with Ola, my experience has been smooth. I love it when they run offers, makes cabbing cheaper. Ola Share is pretty cost effective, especially when you are traveling in pairs. I paid 250 for 2 from Mazgaon to Andheri, pretty budget friendly. I also have a request for the Ola founders – please start shuttle service in Mumbai as well.
When I went to Pune, I found Ola cabs preferable over the rickshaw rides. Considering that I am not so good a haggler and the city rickshaws don’t run on meter, I’d ratchet prefer a comfortable Low, the prices off which can be calculated.
The drawback, however, is the surge pricing. During peak hours, you cannot afford an Ola as the prices surge to as much 2.1x, max noticed by me. I’d also like to add a warning, in case of emergency or when you have to reach somewhere asap, do not go for Ola Share. If there’s a second booking, your can will take a detour resulting in a delay. Some cabbies take time to reach where you are, you’ll need patience to deal with them. And when you have to be somewhere on time, try booking a cab 15-20mins prior to your leaving time.