Less than a week after its highly anticipated launch in Delhi-NCR, Vietnam-based electric taxi service Green SM is facing significant turbulence as drivers voice concerns over drastically reduced payouts and alleged changes to employment conditions. The company, which aims to challenge established ride-hailing platforms with a fleet of 1,000 electric vehicles, was flagged off by Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa and Transport Minister Pankaj Singh on June 5.
Drivers Allege Payouts Fall Short of Promises
Numerous drivers claim their actual weekly earnings are far below the amounts initially promised by Green SM. One driver, speaking anonymously, reported receiving only ₹1,064 as a weekly payout, a stark contrast to the ₹8,076 he expected. Drivers had reportedly been assured a 'Minimum Business Guarantee Income' of ₹35,000 per month for the first two months, equating to ₹1,346 daily for 26 working days, irrespective of the number of bookings completed.
The offer was particularly attractive because Green SM provides VinFast electric vehicles, eliminating the need for drivers to own their cars. However, drivers now allege that the company has introduced new, uncommunicated eligibility requirements for this guaranteed income.
Revised Conditions Spark Frustration
According to messages reportedly sent by Green SM to its drivers, eligibility for the minimum guaranteed income is now tied to specific performance metrics. These include maintaining an acceptance rate of at least 90%, a completion rate of at least 90%, and a customer rating no lower than 4.8. Drivers were also instructed to avoid staying online while charging or at home, only logging in when ready for duty, and to prevent unnecessary ride cancellations.
Drivers state these crucial conditions were not disclosed during the recruitment process, leading to widespread frustration. One driver highlighted a practical challenge: "The company has still not arranged for permissions for all the cars to enter Delhi and Uttar Pradesh. So what should I do if I get a booking for Noida? I can’t cancel it or I won’t get the payment, and if I go, the traffic police will catch me."
Green SM Responds to Driver Feedback
In response to the growing allegations, a Green SM representative acknowledged the feedback from driver partners in the initial phase of Delhi-NCR operations. The company stated that its representatives have met with drivers for direct discussions to address the issues raised and explore solutions in an "open, constructive, and collaborative spirit."
Green SM confirmed it is currently evaluating operational performance and considering necessary adjustments to optimize its services and enhance support for its driver partners. The company also announced a forthcoming policy change, allowing eligible drivers to take their vehicles home, aiming to improve operational efficiency and provide greater flexibility.
Rapid Expansion Plans Amidst Initial Challenges
Green SM officially commenced operations in Delhi-NCR on June 5, with ministers from Delhi and Haryana present at the launch. The company deployed approximately 1,000 electric taxis and has ambitious plans to expand its fleet to 10,000 vehicles nationwide within a year, aiming to establish a strong presence in the premium electric mobility sector. The launch was heralded as a step towards Delhi's vision for sustainable urban transport and aligning with the Delhi EV Policy's goals to reduce vehicular emissions and improve air quality.
The Vietnam-based company, a subsidiary of Vingroup, has also established a manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu. Its global CEO, Nguyen Van Thanh, and Vingroup Asia CEO, Pham Sanh Chau, attended the Delhi launch event.