Yulu Bikes, through its initiative Curve Electric, aims to provide a sustainable e-bike sharing service in Kashmir, addressing air pollution and traffic issues while promoting eco-friendly transportation. The founders, Jubair Butt and Sheikh Yameen, share their journey and vision for expanding this service to other Himalayan cities and university campuses.
In the picturesque valleys of Kashmir, where the air quality index often exceeds alarming levels, a new initiative is emerging to combat pollution and promote sustainable transportation. Yulu Bikes, through its innovative project Curve Electric, has launched Jammu and Kashmir's first public e-bike sharing system. This initiative not only aims to reduce carbon emissions but also to provide a premium biking experience for locals and tourists alike.
Kashmir, often referred to as a paradise on earth, is facing severe environmental challenges. The air quality index in the region frequently surpasses 350, indicating a critical level of pollution. Most vehicles in urban areas travel less than 5 kilometers, a distance easily covered by e-bikes. This presents both a necessity and an opportunity for a green solution in the region.
Jubair Butt and Sheikh Yameen, childhood friends from Srinagar, are the brains behind Curve Electric. Their journey began during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2022 when they noticed a significant increase in tourist traffic that the existing infrastructure could not handle. This led them to realize the urgent need for a sustainable transportation solution in their beloved Kashmir.
Both founders have a strong academic background, having completed their MBAs. Their shared vision to address the environmental crisis in Kashmir motivated them to start this venture. They have successfully prevented over 145 metric tons of carbon emissions in just 1.5 years, equivalent to planting 72 trees.
Curve Electric operates a public e-bike sharing platform with 11 docking stations in Srinagar. Unlike traditional bike-sharing systems, Curve Electric employs a unique model where the front-end operations are manual, ensuring a personal touch in customer service. Users can register at any docking station with an ID proof and phone number, eliminating the need for app downloads or security deposits.
The e-bike sharing industry has seen many failures globally, primarily due to asset misuse when users do not own the bikes. The founders have learned from these failures and have designed their system to minimize risks. They emphasize the importance of human presence at docking stations to deter vandalism and misuse.
Curve Electric has ambitious plans to expand its services to other Himalayan cities such as Shimla, Dehradun, and Manali, as well as university campuses across India. The founders are currently seeking investment to scale their operations and enhance their fleet size from 150 to at least 2000 bikes to meet the growing demand.
The revenue generated per bike is approximately ₹4000 per month, with a focus on maintaining a sustainable business model. The founders aim to reduce the payback period for investments from four years to two years by increasing the number of bikes and optimizing operations.
Yulu Bikes' Curve Electric initiative represents a significant step towards sustainable transportation in Kashmir. By addressing the pressing issues of air pollution and traffic congestion, the founders are not only preserving the beauty of their homeland but also setting a precedent for eco-friendly solutions in other regions. As they continue to expand their services, Curve Electric is poised to become a leader in the e-bike sharing industry in India, promoting a greener future for all.
