Next week, the drivers’ organization intends to bring up the issue in discussions with the new transport minister.
Published on September 8, 2023, at 18:36
According to the Thai Public Taxi Association, car owners want the new transportation secretary to provide a reward program to encourage the switch to electric cars.
The association’s president, Sadit Jaitiang, stated that when the group meets on Friday to discuss a number of issues pertaining to the welfare of car owners, members will bring up the subject with Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit.
He claimed that encouraging the use of EVs would lessen the capital’s sand pollution and carbon emissions.
The organization wants tax breaks and incentives, including a 300,000 baht payment for each EV unit, to stimulate car drivers to drive electric vehicles.
According to Mr. Sadit, switching to EVs without incentives may be difficult for some taxi drivers because of the lack of business they experienced during the Covid-19 crisis and the fact that they are only now recovering financially.
He predicted that about 20,000 taxi cabs would soon run out of fuel and require replacement, ideally with electric vehicles ( EVs ). About 10,000 EVs will be required for the replacement during the first step, he said.
The organization has already stated that it prefers 90 and 120 watt models and has suggested that the SME Development Bank offer low-interest loans to taxi drivers so they can make purchases.
A strategy for allowing car drivers to register with ride-hailing apps and the creation of a council to acquire new fare rates are two additional topics to be discussed with the minister.
Additionally, he stated that a taxi parking lot at Suvarnabhumi Airport was approved in 2019 but has not yet been constructed. The association may also request a roof for the airport’s vehicle waiting area.