CAIRO, May 15 (Xinhua) -- Egypt kicked off a pilot program on Wednesday for operating the country's first fleet of electric taxis in its newly-built New Administrative Capital (NAC), aiming to provide eco-friendly and smart transportation options.
The initial phase sees 10 electric vehicles deployed within the NAC, currently home to most government ministries and institutions.
The fleet, owned by Egypt's Ministry of Transportation, will consist of 85 China-made MG4s and 60 Chevrolet Bolt cars. It will be operated by a local Egyptian company.
"These initial 10 electric cars mark the first stage," said George Michael, CEO of Caesar Clean Energy Transportation Solution, the project operator, told Xinhua, indicating a swift rollout for the remaining vehicles and potential expansion beyond the NAC boundaries.
"The new electric cars are very safe...they are equipped with interior and exterior surveillance systems, and GPS devices to ensure the safety of commuters during trips," Michael said.
Beyond safety, the initiative aligns with Egypt's broader push for smart and sustainable transportation solutions, he added.
People experience an electric taxi during a pilot program ceremony in New Administrative Capital, Egypt, on May 15, 2024. Egypt kicked off the pilot program on Wednesday for operating the country's first fleet of electric taxis in its newly-built New Administrative Capital (NAC), aiming to provide eco-friendly and smart transportation options. (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa)
Photo taken on May 15, 2024 shows an electric taxi during a pilot program ceremony in New Administrative Capital, Egypt. Egypt kicked off the pilot program on Wednesday for operating the country's first fleet of electric taxis in its newly-built New Administrative Capital (NAC), aiming to provide eco-friendly and smart transportation options. (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa)
Electric taxis are seen during a pilot program ceremony in New Administrative Capital, Egypt, on May 15, 2024. Egypt kicked off the pilot program on Wednesday for operating the country's first fleet of electric taxis in its newly-built New Administrative Capital (NAC), aiming to provide eco-friendly and smart transportation options. (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa)
Electric taxis are seen during a pilot program ceremony in New Administrative Capital, Egypt, on May 15, 2024. Egypt kicked off the pilot program on Wednesday for operating the country's first fleet of electric taxis in its newly-built New Administrative Capital (NAC), aiming to provide eco-friendly and smart transportation options. (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa)