Can’t find a cab? How about carpooling with a friendly stranger
going the same way and splitting the cost? New local
startup Ryde hopes to promote carpooling in
Singapore, using geo-location and user reviews to put people in
touch. Founder Terence Zou tells us more.
What apps inspired
RYDE?
Airbnb matches people who have lodging with people who are looking
for one. When people think of traveling, saving some money and
meeting new people, they think Airbnb. When people want to move
around daily, want to save a bit of cash, save the environment and
meet new people, we want them to think RYDE. We are both part of
the new sharing economy.
Will Singaporeans be
into carpooling with strangers?
Carpooling takes place all the time in both formal and informal
arrangements in many developed cities. Today, with the
advancements in geo-location technology, growth of social networks
and the proliferation of smartphones, the idea of carpooling makes
more sense, along with the bigger idea of being part of the sharing
economy. In fact, many companies have built businesses based upon
the sharing economy. Airbnb and local startups like Panda Bed and
Rent Tycoons are some examples. Carpooling is a great way to save
money, make new friends and reduce congestion. We are very
confident it will catch on in a big way and it has been very
encouraging with overwhelming sign ups to date.
What’s the RYDE office
like?
We are a small team tucked away in a minimalistic office. Think
white walls, simple furniture, glass partitions and lots of
sunlight. We keep our environment clean and free from clutter so
that the ideas can keep flowing. Besides we spend long hours in the
office and its a conducive place to be in. We are growing and
looking out for good people to join us.
What are some challenges
you face as a startup?
As a startup we have to constantly solve problems and deal with the
unexpected. It's a rush of adrenaline daily. When things go awry at
times, it is all about self belief. We work through the problems
methodically as a team and convince our stakeholders that the
direction is the right one and most importantly, we never give up
and push on. Entrepreneurship is not easy but immensely rewarding
when we look at the value of we have created. Ultimately, we seek
to transform the lives of people and make an impact.
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