First All-Hybrid Private Hire Car Operation Opens in London
07 April 2006
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| Greentomatocars in London. |
Greentomatocars has opened as the first all-hybrid private-hire car operation in London. The Hammersmith-based company has an all-Prius fleet and has begun a pilot operation in west London which it plans to roll out across the capital by the summer.
Toyota Fleet supplied the first five Prius sedans in mid-February and the fleet is expected to number around 50 by the end of June.
In addition to using the Prius, the company offsets twice the amount of CO2emissions its fleet produces via a rolling program of tree-planting and other eco-projects.
Greentomatocars chose the Toyota Prius after considering all possible alternative-fuel options.
The idea is to provide the greenest service possible. While I’m a big fan of all-electric vehicles in the right context, we just don’t think they are viable at the moment.
—Tom Pakenham, founder
The package for greentomatocars customers includes online bookings; phone or text alerts; driver name and numberplate provided in advance and satellite navigation to help ensure that drivers never lose their way.
An interactive emissions calculator on the website allows customers to compare CO2, NOx and PM10 emissions for a given mileage from a standard London black cab, a conventional sedan, and the Prius.
"The idea is to provide the greenest service possible. While I’m a big fan of all-electric vehicles in the right context, we just don’t think they are viable at the moment.
—Tom Pakenham, founder"
They should consider a CalCar's plug-in modification for some or all of their fleet. As much as they drive, it would probably be worth it.
Posted by: Jesse Jenkins | 07 April 2006 at 07:36 PM
Although, I suppose for something a bit closer to home, these Londoners should consider this instead...
Posted by: Jesse Jenkins | 07 April 2006 at 07:38 PM
"They should consider a CalCar's plug-in modification for some or all of their fleet."
Or, they could stick with the best available proven technology produced by the highest-quality major auto manufacturer which warantees its product, all for a reasonable price.
Posted by: Joseph Willemssen | 07 April 2006 at 11:06 PM
So, they're just a car rental company? Or like a fancy taxi service?
Posted by: Ash | 08 April 2006 at 07:36 AM
Like a fancy taxi service.
Posted by: Mike | 08 April 2006 at 07:48 AM
I wonder how the overall maintence costs will be long term. I think the saved brake pads and reduced engine costs will be a nice bonus for them.
Posted by: hampden wireless | 08 April 2006 at 08:26 PM
The Prius is remarkably reliable. No starter, no alternator, no transmission in reality. Brake work will likely never be done either. Perfect car for Taxi service.
Posted by: Bud Johns | 10 April 2006 at 07:06 AM
can you send me email for my interview on monday 12.00pm
Posted by: mr js manku | 01 September 2006 at 06:53 AM
Sometimes , can be more usefull to rent a car than buy one . It’s a good offert !
Posted by: car rental brisbane | 16 December 2008 at 06:36 PM