Al-Futtaim Motors, the exclusive distributor of Toyota in the UAE, handed over the first batch of a new fleet of 554 Toyota Camry electric hybrid cars to the Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC), part of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), translating into a growth of 145% in the DTCs electric hybrid Camry fleet.
The new electric hybrid fleet of Toyota Camry was handed over to DTC at a ceremony at the Al-Futtaim Motors Toyota headquarters in Dubai Festival City, and was attended by Mohammed Obaid Al Mulla, board member of the board of directors in RTA, Dr Yousuf Al Ali, CEO of DTC, and Saud Abbasi, managing director of Al-Futtaim Motors, in addition to a senior delegation from both companies.
With the introduction of the new Toyota Camry electric hybrid vehicles into the DTC fleet, and a few more deals expected to be completed with other taxi operators, it is estimated to see close to 44% increase in Camry electric hybrid fleets across taxi companies in the UAE, compared to the current in-service vehicles.
Commenting on the partnership between Al-Futtaim Motors and DTC, Abbasi said: Our relationship with the Dubai Taxi Corporation goes from strength to strength, supporting them with 100% of their electric hybrid demand and more than 85% of their petrol-engine fleet. With the addition of these 554 new Camry electric hybrid vehicles, promising over 33% reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, DTC can accelerate their efforts in supporting the vision of a greener future as directed by the UAE Vision 2021.
Dr Ali commented: As we aim to provide more eco-conscious travel solutions that will support the UAE governments green initiatives, our goal is to continue enhancing our service offerings to customers. The addition of this new Camry electric hybrid fleet will meet both of these strategic targets, as we continue to strengthen our partnership with Al-Futtaim Motors, one that has stood the test of time for two decades. This new fleet will play a vital role in supporting DTCs vision of converting 50% of the Dubai Taxi fleet to hybrid by 2021.
As part of the agreement, Al-Futtaim Motors will provide DTC with technical and aftersales staff and support, in addition to providing training to DTCs drivers, as well as all necessary manuals and spare parts.