Austin prides itself on its progressive policies, but New York recently one-upped all other U.S. cities with the announcement that all taxis will be hybrids by 2011.
Currently, Yellow Cab, the largest cab company in town, has about 500 cars in their fleet. Only two are hybrids.
"I've had three drivers express interest in purchasing hybrids as their next cab," Yellow Cab manager Edward Kargbo said.
Most of the taxis in Austin are owned by their drivers. The
most popular choice by far is the Ford Crown Victoria. Cab drivers can opt for a minivan or a Dodge Charger, and now they can choose a Ford Escape hybrid. Its 155-horsepower system averages 30 mpg. By comparison, a Crown Vic gets about 15, according to Fuel Economy.gov.
"I think you'll find a predominant amount of the vehicles in the Austin fleet will be hybrids," Kargbo said.
Austin City Council member Mike Martinez said hybrid taxis are a feasible option. The city could phase them in.
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Hybrid cabs
Austin could follow NYC's lead and begin phasing in more hybrid model taxis.
 
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"You will see us have conversations in the future about not only our own city fleets, but the industries that we contract
with, asking them to step up as well," he said.
Capital Metro began using some hybrid buses in 2003, and other buses use Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) fuel. Some city vehicles are also hybrid models.
Typically, hybrid cars cost a few thousand dollars more. Yellow Cab says the gas saved should pay for the difference in
about three years.
"I don't know if it will ever get to the point that it's a
requirement, but I think there's a lot of interest from the drivers
and we'll slowly get there as that interest continues to mount," Kargbo said.
According to Hybrid Cars.com, right now there are 12 hybrid models for sale.
