Days after its much-hyped launch in Delhi-NCR, Vietnam-based Green SM’s premium electric taxi service, Green SM Limo, is facing backlash from drivers over significantly lower-than-expected earnings and newly introduced performance conditions.
The company, backed by Vingroup (parent of EV maker VinFast), officially launched operations on June 5, 2026, deploying around 1,000 VinFast electric SUVs in the capital region. It positioned itself as a high-quality, all-electric alternative in the ride-hailing market, targeting daily commutes, airport transfers, and business travel.
Promised Earnings vs Reality
Drivers were attracted by the company’s offer of a Minimum Business Guarantee Income of ₹35,000 per month (approximately ₹1,346 per day for 26 working days) for the initial two months. Payouts were to be made every Tuesday.
However, several drivers have reported receiving far less. One cabbie claimed he got only ₹1,064 for the entire week, well below the expected weekly amount of around ₹8,076. “We also have to pay our children’s school fees, we also have to buy milk and vegetables for our kitchens. Doesn’t the company understand that?” another driver told the media.
A key draw for many was that drivers do not need to own vehicles — Green SM provides company-owned electric SUVs, eliminating high upfront costs and maintenance burdens associated with traditional cab operations.
Unannounced Conditions Spark Frustration
Drivers allege that the company has introduced strict eligibility criteria for the guaranteed income that were not clearly communicated during recruitment. According to messages shared with drivers, qualifying for the minimum payout now requires:
- Acceptance rate of at least 90%
- Completion rate of at least 90%
- Customer rating of 4.8 or higher
Additional rules include not remaining online while charging or from home, logging in only after starting duty inside the vehicle, avoiding unnecessary cancellations, and maintaining professional trip execution.
Operational hurdles have compounded the issue. Some drivers pointed out that not all vehicles have the necessary permissions to operate seamlessly across Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and other NCR areas. “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?” one driver questioned.
Company’s Response
Green SM has acknowledged the concerns and stated that its representatives held direct discussions with drivers in an “open, constructive, and collaborative spirit.” The company is reviewing operational data and exploring adjustments to better support its driver partners. It also plans to introduce a policy allowing eligible drivers to take vehicles home, enhancing flexibility.
Background and Expansion Plans
Green SM Limo uses seven-seater electric SUVs featuring advanced safety elements such as cameras and emergency buttons. The service is available via app, hotline, or direct hailing in designated zones. The launch event saw attendance by Delhi ministers Manjinder Singh Sirsa and Pankaj Singh, along with Haryana’s Rao Narbir Singh.
The company aims for phased expansion across India, with ambitions to deploy up to 10,000 vehicles. It is betting on premium electric mobility to differentiate itself following the exit of players like BluSmart.
This early turbulence underscores the challenges new entrants face in India’s highly competitive ride-hailing sector, where driver earnings, regulatory clearances, and ground realities often lead to friction. As Green SM scales, addressing these issues promptly will be key to retaining drivers and establishing credibility in the premium EV cab segment.
The situation continues to evolve, with ongoing dialogue between the company and its drivers. Many hope for swift resolutions to align actual earnings and operations with initial promises.
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