Hong Kong’s Transport and Logistics Bureau officially launched five new electric taxi fleets on March 3, 2025, marking a significant milestone aimed at enhancing the quality of taxi services across the city. The Secretary of the Bureau, Lam Sai-wing, hailed this launch as not only pivotal for the taxi industry but also emblematic of the government’s commitment to fostering quality service and integration of technology within public transportation.
The new fleets will consist of over 3,500 taxis, with approximately 1,900 of them being fully electric vehicles, representing more than one-sixth of the 18,000 taxis currently operating in Hong Kong. Lam pointed out the necessity of modernizing the taxi sector, stating, "Taxis have always been part of our lives; they accompany our social development and growth." He added, "We encourage the taxi industry to innovate and embrace technologies. Otherwise, we risk falling behind the times.”
The launch ceremony showcased various vehicles from the selected operators, including Big Boss Taxi Company Limited, CMG Fleet Management Limited, Syn Cab, Amigo, and Tai Wo. Each fleet has unique characteristics, with some featuring modern designs and all integrating advanced technology for passenger safety and service efficiency.
Lauding the efforts behind this initiative, Lam declared the taxi fleets as potential "leaders" within the industry, intended to inspire and attract more drivers and fleet operators to join the movement for improved service standards. He stated, "We expect these taxi fleets to become leaders and inject fresh motivation within the industry, enhancing the quality of service for passengers."
Each of the new taxi fleets will be equipped with global positioning systems, driving recorders, and driver monitoring systems, ensuring passengers feel secure and comfortable during their journeys. Also, all vehicles will offer several electronic payment options, adapting to the increasing demand for cashless transactions.
Apart from the electric models, these fleets incorporate hybrid and wheelchair-accessible taxis, showcasing the government's commitment to sustainable transportation and social inclusion. Lam emphasized the importance of these developments as the industry faces contemporary challenges, calling for continuous improvements to meet the expectations of both residents and visitors alike.
The operational timeline for these new fleets is segmented, with the first fleet expected to be operational by the end of March 2025, followed by others gradually coming online through July 2025. This phased implementation aims to manage logistics efficiently and facilitate a seamless introduction of the new services.
During the launch, Lam expressed confidence: "Our aim is to create more choices for the public and to redefine their taxi experience through enhanced service mechanisms.” He reiterated the government's ambition to submit proposed legislation to the Legislative Council later this season, which would integrate mandatory recording systems and require all taxis to accept at least two forms of electronic payment.
Members of the Transportation Affairs Committee and other officials were present at the launch, expressing their optimism for the fleet's potential impact on the general taxi experience and community. They pointed out how important first impressions are for tourists arriving in Hong Kong, commencing their exposure to the local culture through taxi services. Lam added, “Many people have grown up using taxis; the experiences we provide now could shape perceptions for the future generations.”
The festive atmosphere surrounding the launch underscored not just technological advancements but also marked the next step toward the sustainability and modernization goals set by the Hong Kong government.
Investing in these taxi services signifies the government's dedication to reducing carbon footings and transitioning to more eco-friendly alternatives within public transportation systems. This strategic move reinforces the city’s vision of becoming greener, aiming to set standards not only within the region but as an example on the global stage.
Overall, the launch of these electric taxi fleets signals Hong Kong’s intent to adapt to the modern global expectations on transport and service quality, paving the way for future enhancements and solutions geared toward increased passenger satisfaction.