RushOwl
Overview
RushOwl is a Singapore-based smart mobility startup founded in 2018 by Shin Ng, Songyan Ho, and Kris Lee. The company is known for its proprietary AI technology that optimizes shuttle services by pooling ride requests, reducing carbon emissions, and minimizing commute times. As of 2025, RushOwl has successfully raised $10 million in a Series A funding round, led by Gobi Partners, with participation from the Hong Kong Investment Corporation. Primarily operating in Singapore, India, and Hong Kong, RushOwl aims to expand into the Philippines, South Korea, and Malaysia. Their innovative technology, RushOS, is centered around dynamic routing and preparation for autonomous vehicles.
Recent Developments
- September 2025: RushOwl secured $10 million in a Series A funding round led by Gobi Partners, also involving the Hong Kong Investment Corporation (HKIC). The funding aims to fuel expansion into the Philippines, South Korea, and Malaysia, and to open a research and development center in Malaysia.
- 2025: The company announced plans to enhance its B2B sales efforts and licensing agreements for its RushOS technology, focusing on partnerships with fleet operators.
- May 2025: RushOwl welcomed Gobi Partners and Alibaba Group as significant shareholders, securing a combined S$9.8 million (about $7.3 million) in capital in a previous funding round.
- Early 2025: The company launched "NightOwl," a flat-fare late-night shuttle service targeting commuters who travel after midnight on weekends, offering an affordable alternative to surge-priced ride-hailing.
- RushOwl's AI-driven platform managed over 4,000 trips daily, servicing about 250,000 users and achieving significant reductions in commute times and carbon emissions.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 2018 |
| Headquarters | Singapore |
| Founders | Shin Ng, Songyan Ho, Kris Lee |
| Revenue | Not publicly disclosed |
| Profits | Not publicly disclosed |
| Key Investors | Gobi Partners, Hong Kong Investment Corporation, Alibaba Group |
| Industry | Smart Mobility, Ride-Sharing |
| Number of Employees | 39 |
Early History
RushOwl was founded in 2018 by three entrepreneurs—Shin Ng, Songyan Ho, and Kris Lee—united by their vision to bridge gaps in public transportation through smart mobility solutions. The founders were initially involved in mobility research, driven by the need for more equitable access to transportation in both developed and developing urban areas. Starting with the creation of an on-demand shuttle service, the company aimed to fill voids left by existing public transit systems, especially in areas underserved by conventional methods. By leveraging AI technology, the company quickly optimized routing and lowered costs while entering into partnerships with businesses and educational institutions.
Company Profile and Achievements
RushOwl operates at the intersection of smart mobility and environmental sustainability. Using its proprietary AI-based platform, RushOS, the company has effectively managed shared shuttle services in urban areas. This technology is distinctive for its focus on dynamic routing and readiness for autonomous vehicle integration.
- Key Achievements:
- Efficiently conducted over 1.5 million rides, with 4,000 rides taking place daily.
- Reduced individual commute times by 30% and carbon emissions by 50%.
- Developed significant partnerships with key institutions, including Singapore’s Ministry of Education and Asia Pacific Breweries.
- Launched "NightOwl," a service providing affordable travel during late-night hours.
- Secured long-term contracts, ensuring stable revenue streams.
Current Operations and Market Position
RushOwl's operations remain robust in Singapore, India, and Hong Kong, where it continues expanding its AI-driven shuttle services. The recent funding rounds enable continued R&D into autonomous vehicles and further geographical expansion. Competitive advantages include a strong focus on sustainability, cost efficiency, and a well-integrated, dynamic data platform that outperforms traditional fixed-route shuttles.
Conclusion
RushOwl represents a formidable player in the smart mobility industry, combining innovation with a focus on sustainability. As urban areas worldwide grapple with congestion and pollution, RushOwl's suite of technologies and services offers a compelling solution. The company's visionary approach, spearheaded by its AI-powered smart shuttle services, positions it well for future success as it expands its footprint in Asia and beyond. Continued enhancements to its B2B offerings and advent of autonomous vehicle integration could further solidify its status as a leader in this evolving field.