Ghent (Brussels Morning Newspaper): Fatih Senel from Taxi4 You reports that Ghent has 8 public charging stations, often busy for his 220 electric taxis transitioning by January 1. The city offers a €30/month parking deal for taxis at charging stations starting in November.
According to Fatih Senel from Taxi4You, there are 8 public charging stations in the area, but they are usually busy when their drivers finish their shifts. His company is in a crowded area where these stations are frequently used. He notes that they often have to drive around looking for a charging spot, which is frustrating since there is usually space available at Cambio and other car-sharing stations. The taxi sector is suggesting that the city allow electric taxis to use these charging stations.
Will Ghent’s new electric taxi requirement impact charging availability for drivers?
From January 1, Ghent will require all fixed-location taxis to be fully electric, affecting 220 vehicles with a white-blue bar on their roofs. There will be a few months to transition, but all these taxis must switch to electric. Some drivers are concerned about charging availability and hope the city can help. The town has previously offered support for buying electric vehicles. This rule doesn’t apply to street taxis, which mainly use hybrid cars, so clear signs at charging stations are needed since those taxis don’t need to use them.
The city is looking at parking needs for taxi drivers and has a special deal for them in city parking lots. For 30 euros a month or 330 euros a year, taxi drivers can park at a charging station during the night and on weekends, ensuring they have a spot to charge their cars. The city council approved this plan earlier and will confirm it tonight. Taxi companies can start using this from the beginning of November.
