100 electric taxis rolled out in Dalian

One hundred extended range electric black cabs were put to work in Dalian, Liaoning province, on Wednesday to help promote green public transportation and facilitate the travel of multi-member families and passengers with wheelchairs.

Dalian is said to be the first domestic city offering the new model of cab, which follows the iconic look of London black cabs and aims for zero-emissions.

The front passenger seat of the vehicle is used as a luggage compartment, while the rear offers a comfortable sitting area that can accommodate up to six passengers.

With an easy-to-use ramp, it offers easy access for strollers or people in wheelchairs. Even passengers with severe mobility challenges are able to enter the vehicle, as the outer flip seat can rotate to a fixed position outside the passenger door.

The 100 taxis in Dalian are operated by a local subsidiary of automobile company Geely Holding Group. All drivers have been trained to provide appropriated services to passengers, who can make an appointment via car-hailing app. Alternatively, they can wave a black cab over if one happens to pass by.

The new taxis are part of a project of the local government designed to improve residents' livelihoods, said Wang Shaocheng, head of Dalian's transportation bureau.

The city will continue to accelerate the upgrade and renewal of new-energy and clean-energy vehicles, as well as continue to facilitate and improve the quality of public travel, he said.