Arabia Taxi, one of the largest taxi operators in the United Arab Emirates, has taken a significant step towards electrification with the introduction of 269 Tesla Model 3 taxis in Dubai. According to reports, Dubai will only permit electrified taxis in the emirate from 2027. This move is part of a broader strategy to reduce emissions and promote sustainable transportation in the region.
The Tesla cabs are among the first fully electric taxis to operate in the UAE, and they represent a major milestone for Arabia Taxi as it works towards converting its fleet to fully electric. The company currently operates 6,000 vehicles throughout the UAE, 83% of which are hybrid taxis. The purchase of the Tesla Model 3 cabs was made in partnership with Tesla Dubai.
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Arabia Taxi is a subsidiary of the Economic Group owned by Sheikh Majid bin Hamad Al Qasimi. Sheikh Al Qasimi said the company was working on a strategic plan to convert the remaining vehicles into fully electric cars and was also considering the possibility of hydrogen-powered vehicles. For now, however, Arabia Taxi is focused on expanding its cooperation with Tesla and other electric car manufacturers.
The move towards electrification in the taxi sector in Dubai began in 2017 when the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) set a target of 50% hybrid taxis by 2021. Currently, 72% of the taxis in Dubai are hybrid vehicles, with the rest of the fleet to be electrified by 2027. The plan includes battery and hydrogen taxis in addition to hybrids and is part of the RTA’s broader initiative to introduce environmentally friendly vehicles.
Ahmed Bahrozyan, the CEO of the RTA, praised Arabia Taxi’s move towards electrification, stating that it confirms the efforts of the company to translate the directions of the UAE’s wise leadership to promote sustainable transportation and create a safe, clean, and sustainable environment in Dubai.
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Overall, the introduction of 269 Tesla Model 3 taxis in Dubai is a significant milestone in the UAE’s transition towards sustainable transportation, and it sets an excellent example for other taxi operators to follow. With the continued expansion of electric vehicle infrastructure and the decreasing costs of electric vehicles, it is clear that the future of transportation is electric, and companies like Arabia Taxi are leading the way.
