The CEO of Gett UK, Matteo de Renzi, has outlined an ambitious initiative to promote the widespread adoption of electric taxis as part of efforts to combat pollution.
There are currently between 200 and 300 of the new LEVC TX black cabs operating in the UK, most of them under Gett’s platform. De Renzi aims to increase this number to 2,000 by the end of 2019, anticipating a ‘snowball effect’ driven by advances in technology, infrastructure, and public demand. According to him, reaching this target will catalyse further adoption due to the benefits observed by drivers and the increasing environmental awareness among Londoners.
The Mayor of London has introduced measures to address pollution, including a ban on registering diesel taxis from January 2018. The entire black cab fleet, which currently numbers around 22,000 with half on Gett’s platform, is required to transition to electric by 2025. De Renzi hopes for a rapid shift towards electric vehicles in the coming quarters, predicting significant impacts once the transition gathers pace.
Gett is actively promoting the LEVC TX cabs in major UK cities such as London and Coventry. Although the new electric cabs are costly, De Renzi highlights the substantial fuel savings they offer, potentially amounting to thousands of pounds annually. To encourage adoption, Gett provides a six-month commission-free period to cabbies investing in the new model, facilitating quicker returns on their investments.
The advancements in battery technology have significantly enhanced the feasibility of all-day electric cab operations. De Renzi notes that five years ago, running an electric taxi all day would have been impossible, but the capacities of current batteries have improved exponentially. He expects future batteries to have four or five times the capacity of the present ones.
Gett’s environmental commitment extends to making rides carbon neutral and, in some cases, carbon positive. The company is offsetting 7,500 tonnes of CO2 through investments in accredited carbon reduction projects. These initiatives include a Wind Power Generation project in India and the Madre de Dios Project in the Peruvian Amazon, aimed at reducing deforestation. Additionally, customers have the option to support the ‘carbon positive’ initiative by adding 20p to their cab fare. The proceeds will go to 12 central London schools identified in the Mayor of London’s school air quality audit programme to fund measures aimed at improving air quality.
De Renzi emphasises the growing importance of air quality, noting the increasing awareness and efforts not just in London but across the UK. With the carbon neutral initiative, Gett is aiding cities in achieving cleaner air and reducing pollution levels. Customers are also given the option to contribute to these efforts.
Mark Chadwick, CEO of Carbon Clear, supports Gett’s initiatives, highlighting the importance of carbon neutrality in protecting the planet and supporting sustainable development. He confirms that the offsetting projects supported by Gett adhere to rigorous international standards, ensuring they deliver on promised emissions reductions while also benefiting international communities.
The transition to electric cabs represents a significant step in addressing urban pollution. Through technological advancements, strategic incentives, and robust environmental commitments, Gett is paving the way for a cleaner, greener future.