Amsterdam to get electric cabs

Tourists and locals alike will soon be able to ride a fleet of almost traditional English black cabs throughout Amsterdam.

‘Almost’ traditional, because these cars will be electric.

Taxi Center Amsterdam (TCA) has ordered fifty of the cars, which are produced by Chinese automaker Geely.

Geely co-owns Manganese Bronze, the company that builds London’s black taxis. Indeed, if all goes to plan during the course of this year you will also see these cabs on the streets of London.

TCA plans to have 20 of the electric cabs in service in Amsterdam before the summer, and fifty in total by the end of the year, says TCA director Bas Vos.

The new cabs are said to be cleaner, safer and more quiet.

TCA driver Remy Kemperman already drives one of the new model — albeit one that still runs on gas. He likes the car, which seats five passengers, because it is safe, roomy and ‘gorgeous.’

Still, many local cab drivers won’t easily give up on the long-time car of choice: a Mercedes — seen as a symbol of success and style.

With 1700 affiliated drivers, TCA is Amsterdam’s largest taxi firm.

A TCA taxi can be ordered at any hotel (specify TCA), or by calling (020) 777 7777. As of yet you cannot specify whether you with to ride in a Mercedes, a ‘London cab,’ or something else.

See Also

• What you should know about taxis in Amsterdam