Hamburg Allocates Additional EUR700,000 to Expand Electric Taxi Fleet

Hamburg has announced the allocation of an additional EUR700,000 to further support the electrification of its taxi fleet, reinforcing the city's commitment to sustainable urban transport solutions.

Since 2021, Hamburg has provided substantial financial incentives to encourage taxi operators to transition from conventional vehicles to electric-powered alternatives. As part of the ongoing 'Future Taxi' initiative, the latest funding aims to accelerate the shift towards a fully emission-free taxi service across the city.

Incentives for Taxi Operators

The current funding scheme offers EUR5,000 for each standard taxi replaced by an electric vehicle. Operators who register large-capacity electric taxis with eight or nine seats receive EUR10,000 per vehicle. Further, the city grants up to EUR20,000 for electric taxis that are specially equipped to accommodate wheelchair users, promoting both accessibility and environmental responsibility.

Progress and Impact

Hamburg has set ambitious targets for its taxi fleet. From early 2025, only locally emission-free taxis and rental vehicles will be permitted for new registration. As a result, the city anticipates that by 2030, nearly all taxis operating in Hamburg will be powered by electricity.

Data from the initial four rounds of funding reveal that 750 of the city's approximately 2,900 taxis now run on electric power, representing around 25% of the total fleet. This figure positions Hamburg as a national leader in taxi electrification. Authorities estimate that these efforts have already led to a reduction of more than 19,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions. Upon full conversion of the fleet, annual CO2 savings are projected at approximately 25,000 tonnes.

Collaborative Approach

The 'Future Taxi' project is a collaborative initiative involving taxi companies, industry associations, regulatory bodies, vehicle manufacturers, and private sector partners. This integrated approach has been fundamental to the project's progress, ensuring that the transition to electromobility is efficient and widely adopted.

Infrastructure and Support

To facilitate the growth of electric taxis, Hamburg is expanding its dedicated charging infrastructure. Currently, eight charging points are reserved exclusively for taxis, offering preferential electricity rates. By the end of 2026, the number of exclusive charging stations is expected to increase to at least 30, ensuring reliable access for taxi drivers and supporting operational efficiency.

Additionally, Hamburg has introduced a dedicated telephone number for booking electric taxis, making it easier for residents and visitors to access zero-emission transport options. This service underlines the city's commitment to both environmental goals and customer convenience.

Looking Ahead

Hamburg's proactive strategy places it at the forefront of the mobility transition in Germany. With continued investment in financial incentives and infrastructure, the city is on track to achieve a comprehensive, emission-free taxi fleet within the next few years. This initiative not only supports environmental objectives but also improves accessibility and modernizes the city's public transport offerings.