Representing the united voices of Thailand’s taxi drivers, the Thai Public Taxi Association is seeking the attention of Suriya Jungrungreangkit, the nation’s Transport Minister, for an economic aid package designed to facilitate their transition to Electric Vehicles (EVs). The association’s dynamics, steered by Chairman Sadit Jaitiang, mark their calendars for a crucial tête-à-tête with the Transport Minister, scheduled for next Friday.
This high-importance meeting is aimed to encompass an array of concerns affecting the livelihood of taxi drivers across the country. One crucial discussion point will be the profound environmental impact achievable via the adoption of EVs by the taxi industry – a change capable of substantially curtailing carbon emissions and particulate pollution, especially in the bustling heart of Thailand’s capital city, Bangkok, argues Sadit.
However, to set the wheels of this vital transition in motion, the association, with resolute conviction, is seeking formal endorsements in the shape of tax deductions, exclusive subsidies, and a noteworthy subsidy of 300,000 baht per EV unit. Their push is based on concerns regarding the economic pressure taxi drivers are currently grappling with, coupled with the unprecedented business downturn caused by the Covid-19 global health crisis. Sadit opines that, without the vital support structures proposed, switching to EVs would be financially unviable for drivers, many of whom are still struggling to regain their footing in these challenging times, as per reports from the Bangkok Post.
The chairman further disclosed that an estimate of 20,000 taxi cabs is on the brink of completing their 12-year operational tenure, and will be necessitating replacements soon. He advocates the use of electric taxis as the go-to replacements for these aging vehicles, with an immediate demand for roughly 10,000 units.
Leaning towards the 90- and 120-kilowatt models, the Thai Public Taxi Association underscores the pragmatic approach of this venture. They have also recommended that the SME Development Bank offer taxi drivers specialized low-interest loans for the acquisition of these EVs.
The forthcoming meeting with the Transport Minister is also anticipated to tackle various other topics. These include the need for a board to revisit and possibly revamp fare rates, a structured pathway for taxi driver registration with ride-hailing apps, and the stalled establishment of a car park designated for taxis at Suvarnabhumi Airport – a project that has been in the approval stage since 2019, and yet to kick-off. To further improve driver facilities, the association intends to call for the installation of a roof in the taxi waiting area at the airport.
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