Just weeks after entering the Indian market with its all-electric taxi service, Green SM is reportedly facing criticism from a section of its driver partners over working conditions and earnings. The development comes at a crucial time for the VinFast-backed mobility company, which recently launched operations in Delhi-NCR as a premium electric cab service.
Drivers Allege Salary Delays
Several videos circulating on social media show Green SM drivers protesting and raising concerns about delayed payments. The drivers claim they have been operating the company's electric cabs for the last three to four weeks, but have yet to receive the earnings they were expecting.
In the videos, multiple drivers can be seen gathered in their Green SM uniforms, with a number of Limo Green EVs parked in the background. Many of them allege that despite repeatedly reaching out to the company, their payment-related issues remain unresolved.
Concerns Over Earnings And Expenses
Apart from delayed payouts, some drivers have also alleged that they are receiving lower earnings than initially promised. A few drivers claimed they were expecting a fixed share from each ride but received less than anticipated.
There are also allegations that some drivers had to bear toll charges and municipal taxes from their own pockets due to issues related to FASTag availability and balance. As a result, several drivers claim their daily operating costs have increased significantly.
What Was Promised?
According to reports, Green SM had offered drivers a minimum guaranteed income during the first two months of operations. The company was also expected to provide weekly payouts, irrespective of the number of trips completed during the guarantee period.
One of the key reasons many drivers joined Green SM was the company's reported Minimum Business Guarantee Income programme. Under this scheme, drivers were allegedly promised earnings of Rs 35,000 per month, or approximately Rs 1,346 per day for 26 working days, during their first two months on the platform, regardless of the number of trips completed.
This model attracted many drivers, especially because Green SM owns the vehicles, and drivers do not need to invest in purchasing a car to join the platform. The company is believed to have deployed around 1,000 electric taxis across the Delhi-NCR region.
Drivers now claim that these promises have not translated into actual payments, leading to growing frustration among those operating the company's fleet of electric taxis.
Green SM Yet To Respond
The drivers seen in the videos are urging fellow Green SM partners to join the protest until the payment issues are resolved. At present, these allegations are based on claims made by drivers participating in the demonstrations.
Green SM and VinFast have not yet issued an official statement regarding the matter. It remains to be seen how the company responds to the concerns and whether steps are taken to address the issues raised by its driver partners.
