Yellow taxi fleet owners must replace their vehicles every three years; individual owners every five years. New York City’s October 1st deadline for fleet owners to purchase hybrids is in peril. An estimated 2,500 of the city’s 13,227 taxis are scheduled for replacement this October. Unfortunately, cab owners claim there aren’t enough hybrids to go around (Reportedly only 20% are available nationwide.) and that they’re not as safe as their Crown Victorias.

With hybrids, cabbies are estimated to save $5,000 a year. Cab drivers are being hit hard enough because of rising gas prices. Government officials should give taxi owners some additional time to convert their vehicles or work with the automakers to secure the needed hybrids. Common sense and compassion from any government is rare. Both may be needed more now than conservation.

http://newyorkcityonline.blogspot.com/2008/07/green-deadline-for-hybrid-taxis-may-be.html