Winner: Kickstart Services Private Limited- Early Stage
Although Kickstart’s service with large modified vehicles has been successful in carving out a sustainable niche market, the service is not affordable for the lower economic strata. This is because of high capital costs of the vehicle and it’s modification. The typical modified vehicles used currently are Tata Wingers (Cost – 14L).
To address the issue of disabled friendly transportation for the lower economic strata, Kickstart has designed a unique low cost wheelchair accessible vehicle, which will reduce the capital cost significantly ( reduce by about 75%) and also make it viable to operate. The cost of operation is under 1 Rupee / KM, and the maintenance is extremely inexpensive, essentially providing a decent income for the driver / owner. Our goal is to make accessible dignified rides affordable. This project will ensure that safe, dignified, and accessible transportation for PWD and Senior citizens who use wheelchairs is made available at the cost of an average auto rickshaw ride or lesser.
The vehicle is designed in such a way that when it is not being used for wheelchair users, it can accommodate additional able bodied passengers, therefore making it a win-win for bot the wheelchair user as well as the owner driver of the vehicle.
About Organisation
Since its inception in 2013, Kickstart has provided over 1Lakh safe and dignified rides for people with disability and senior citizens. Kickstart is the first cab provider in India to provide specialised cab services. We work to improve the quality of life of our users, by providing mobility solutions that are a) specially designed to suit their needs and b) equipped with drivers who double up as assistants. Kickstart’s growth in the past 5 years has proved that specialised vehicles for transportation is much needed.