Kakao Mobility Accelerates Electric Taxi Introduction... Supports Purchase Costs

[Asia Economy Reporter Kang Nahum] Kakao Mobility has officially started introducing electric taxis.

On the 4th, according to Kakao Mobility, they recently launched an electric taxi support program targeting new individual taxi drivers wishing to join the franchise taxi service 'KakaoT Blue' or existing members seeking vehicle replacement.

First, Kakao Mobility selected 50 vehicles and decided to support 2 million KRW per vehicle for purchase costs.

Electric taxis are highly regarded not only for their carbon emission reduction effects but also for driving convenience, economy, ride comfort, and noise levels. However, high vehicle prices and concerns about charging infrastructure remain obstacles.

The adoption rate is inevitably low; currently, among approximately 16,000 KakaoT Blue franchise taxis, only about 180 are electric vehicles, accounting for just over 1%.

Recently partnering with Kia Motors, Kakao Mobility plans to accelerate the spread of electric taxis by offering various benefits, starting with vehicle purchase cost support. Additionally, they plan to provide discounts on electric vehicle charging fees through a partnership with GS Caltex.

A Kakao Mobility official stated, "Our goal is not just to end with electric vehicle purchases but to organically connect management aspects such as charging and maintenance to enable efficient operations," adding, "We are also considering additional support quantities and benefits."