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Higher costs force Expo cabs off roads
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EXPO taxis will be phased out by the start of 2014, one year earlier than originally planned due to high maintenance costs.
There have been 3,000 Volkswagen Touran cars used as taxis since the 2010 World Expo. The cabs have been operated by the city’s major taxi companies. According to the original plan, the cars were to be phased out after four to five years.
However, the plan was shortened by one year as replacement cars are already being put into service.
By early next year the Expo cabs will be a rare sight on the city’s streets. The decision was recently approved by Shanghai taxi management authorities.
Compared to the Santana Vista, the most common taxi in the city, a Touran costs 40,000 yuan (US$6,557) to 50,000 yuan more, consumes more gas and features higher maintenance fees.
According to a Haibo Taxi Co employee, 80 of its 640 Touran cars have already been sold on the second-hand vehicle market. They will phase out more and finish replacing them within a few months.
Some taxi customers said they were not happy about the news.
“It’s very sad. That’s the taxi I like most,” said an Indian expatriate who takes taxis regularly.
“The seats are more comfortable and spacious compared to the Santana cars. Plus, the Expo cabs can carry more luggage and the drivers have better manners.
“The authorities could think about charging a bit more for Expo taxis,” he added. “I believe people who prefer Expo cars won’t mind paying 2 or 3 yuan extra to have a more comfortable ride.”
Another frequent cab user agreed.
“Expo cars are neat and tidy, with more space inside,” said a taxi passenger surnamed Shen.
“They are a good choice for families with children. It will be a pity when they are gone and I hope the authorities will consider launching similar taxis in the future.”
The Touran cars were introduced especially for the 2010 World Expo in Shanghai. They were painted white and carry the Expo logo and mascot.
The drivers were selected from the then five major taxi companies and were given additional training. They had no traffic accidents or customer complaints in the prior two years before selection.
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