TreeHugger makes the interesting point that taxis “drive an average of 10 times more than regular passenger cars” and “Switching cabs to hybrids will save cab drivers an average of $1,200 to $1,500 per month on fuel”.

These are U.S. stats - but it makes complete sense, though sometimes I need someone else to make the connection for me

What this means is that the additional cost of a hybrid could fairly easily be recouped by a taxi driver/company if they change their cars over. Big improvement on the $$ and environmental bottom-line.

Two added bonuses I can think of - 1) cabs often spend a lot of time in traffic/idle, which is where hybrids shine from a fuel-economy perspective; and 2) the electric engine makes them zippy from a standing stop, which is great for city driving.

Sydney is already trialing hybrid cabs - and I seem to recall a commercial venture kicking off, though I can’t seem to find the link (anyone?). Let’s hope it’s not too long before the idea catches on…