Electromobility is poised to revolutionise urban transportation, offering benefits that extend beyond individual vehicle owners to the entire community. In densely populated cities like Athens, where air pollution poses a significant health risk, the adoption of zero-emission vehicles has the potential to significantly enhance the quality of life and improve public health outcomes.
International studies highlight the magnitude of this opportunity. In the United States, the largest electric vehicle market globally, research indicates that transitioning to electromobility could yield public health benefits estimated at between USD 84 bn and USD 188 bn by 2050 (P3 Group).
Despite these global advantages, Athens currently lags behind other European capitals.
Currently, the city has approximately 100 electric taxis out of a total fleet of over 13,600, representing less than 1% of the overall taxi population (Wikipedia).
In stark contrast, over 50% of London’s black cabs are now zero-emission capable (Electrifying.com), while Hamburg has around 700 e-taxis, accounting for about 12% of its fleet (Hamburg Business).
Athens’ slow adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) can be attributed to several factors. Taxi drivers often express concerns about the high initial costs associated with EVs, the limited availability of charging infrastructure, and the challenges of long-distance travel without the opportunity to recharge.
The ZAP Taxi Club emerged to solve this problem.
It was developed through a collaboration between Sirec Energy, Ethniki Leasing and FREENOW and is creating a practical pathway for taxi drivers to transition to electric vehicles. The program offers leasing agreements lasting 4 to 5 years, which include maintenance, insurance, and complimentary charging.
At the end of the lease, drivers have the option to purchase the vehicle for a nominal fee, which may reduce operating costs by up to 30 per cent. Additionally, taxis enrolled in the program receive priority access to fares through the FREENOW platform.
Infrastructure improvements are in progress throughout Attica.
The ZAP Taxi Club is providing exclusive access to 60 fast chargers strategically located in 10 key areas: OAKA, Piraeus Port, Peristeri, Kifisias Avenue, Rentis, Alimos, Ilioupoli, Athens Airport, Elliniko, and central Athens.
Athens is in the early stages of transitioning to electrified transport. Despite the current low adoption rate of electric taxis, government subsidies, municipal charging initiatives, and private partnerships, such as the ZAP Taxi Club, are making this transition increasingly practical and financially appealing.
Collectively, these efforts represent substantial progress toward establishing a more sustainable and healthier urban environment, as well as a modern urban transportation system in Greece.
CEO of Sirec Energy,Dionysis Alissandratos, commented:
“Athens is in the early stages of transitioning to electrified transport. Despite the current low adoption rate of electric taxis, government subsidies, municipal charging initiatives, and private partnerships, such as the ZAP Taxi Club, are making this transition increasingly practical and financially appealing. Collectively, these efforts represent substantial progress toward establishing a more sustainable and healthier urban environment, as well as a modern urban transportation system in Greece”.