Shell Lubricants, Hoopy launch doorstep vehicle servicing for two-wheelers in India

Global oil and lubricant major Shell Lubricants has partnered with Bangalore-based start-up Hoopy, a technology-driven business to bring contactless two-wheeler doorstep servicing in India.

The company says the concept of the service arose out of the need to create a steady source of income for the mechanic community, impacted severely by the Covid-19 pandemic while also creating a safe and trusted service for consumers. The pandemic created severe repercussions for the Indian mechanic community in the form of disrupted business and uncertainty as many chose to move back to their hometowns.

Raman Ojha, country head, Shell Lubricants India said: “During the thousands of virtual interactions that we have had with two-wheeler mechanics over the past few months, we realised that footfalls to their business and hence, their income itself has become very inconsistent. Many of them urged us to do something in this regard and this is an idea that stuck with us, an initiative to not just create better livelihood opportunities for them, but also to create greater self-reliance amongst them.”

The partners say they are keen to help with the safe recovery of the mechanic community as they gradually return to their workspace. In the coming days, the partnership focus on training and generating business for up to 5,000 mechanics, with an aim to support them in overcoming adversities that have risen due to the pandemic's impact on their livelihoods. This would help in creating a community of empowered, self-sustaining mechanics equipped with the latest know-how from experts in the automotive industry. The partnership and programme will also ensure a steady business flow for mechanics with the possibility of making 30-40 percent higher income than they would in garages.

According to the partners at present more customers are demanding contactless services while also ensuring affordability. The collaboration aims to offer a convenient option to avail economical services on a technology-driven platform where two-wheeler owners can make bookings, track service request journeys on a real-time basis, and pay on the app and website, hassle-free from the comfort of their homes. Most importantly, get their vehicle serviced anywhere, anytime from a reliable and well-trained professional.

Shashank Dubey, co-founder and COO, Hoopy said: “We are thrilled to have Shell as our exclusive expansion and lubricant partner. Shell is synonymous with trust and quality, and this collaboration will enable us to deliver a much-desired combination of convenience, care, and quality to people’s doorstep in these trying times. Our partnership will set a benchmark for how customers can enjoy a safe and high-quality two-wheeler servicing experience amidst Covid-19.”