Ola Cabs switches from Google Maps to inhouse Ola Maps, saves ₹100 crore

In a recent statement, Ola Cabs CEO announced that the company has fully exited Google Maps after Azure’s departure last month. The CEO mentioned that Ola used to spend ₹100 crore annually on Google Maps, but now they have transitioned completely to their in-house Ola maps. Users are urged to update their Ola app to access the new mapping system.

Furthermore, Ola Cabs is set to introduce new features in the coming months with their Ola Maps, including street view, neural radiance fields, indoor images, 3D maps, and drone maps among others. This move comes after Ola acquired GeoSpoc, a Pune-based company specializing in geospatial services in October 2021.

In addition to enhancing their ride-hailing application, Ola plans to integrate Ola Maps into their electric two-wheelers through a software update scheduled for January. Ola Electric, a subsidiary of Ola Cabs, is also working on developing solid-state batteries for their electric vehicles as part of their sustainable energy initiatives.

Ola Electric is currently in the early stages of researching solid-state battery technology and aims to manufacture battery cells at their Gigafactory in Pochampally, Tamil Nadu. Not only will these batteries power Ola Electric vehicles, but they will also be sold to other electric vehicle manufacturers in the future. This strategic move aligns with Ola’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in the electric vehicle industry.

Published on: 08 Jul 2024, 11:55 AM IST