ECO MOTORS NEWS interviewed eight taxi and private hire (VTC) drivers who operate fully electric vehicles to find out what they think of the experience — and what their passengers think too! We also asked each of them how likely they are to ever go back to a combustion engine.
Ali. Île-de-France.*
As a VTC driver, I switched to 100% electric mainly to save on fuel and maintenance costs. On a daily basis, I notice that younger passengers react positively to this type of engine, while older passengers pay less attention. The driving silence is the advantage I appreciate most, as it significantly improves comfort. However, range remains a weak point for me, especially during long working days.
→ Probability of returning to combustion: 0%.
Bruno. Île-de-France.
I’m not an environmental activist, but I switched to electric after falling in love with a Hyundai model that is only available in electric. Ultra-fast charging, essential for my busy work schedule, was a decisive factor in my choice. I find that while some clients are initially reluctant, a simple explanation — particularly about my daily 600 km with just one recharge in the middle of the day — is often enough to convince them of the electric vehicle’s reliability. I appreciate the comfort, especially the silence, as well as the savings. The main difference with my old petrol cars is the slight change in work organisation, which I adapted to quickly.
→ Probability of returning to combustion: 0%.
Christophe. Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
I switched to electric for economic reasons. My clients are generally satisfied with the experience, and they particularly enjoy the silence on board. Unfortunately, managing the various charging cards and the lack of clarity in pricing can sometimes complicate my daily routine.
→ Probability of returning to thermal: 0%.
David. Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur.
Switching to electric happened naturally, motivated by the driving comfort and savings on fuel and maintenance. My clients do not make any particular remarks; it’s already become normal. I mainly appreciate the reduced running costs. However, the range could still be improved to better meet the demands of the job.
→ Probability of returning to thermal: 0%.
Karim. Centre-Val de Loire.
I chose to try a 100% electric car out of curiosity. However, I notice a certain hesitation among my clients, often unconvinced by this type of engine, particularly due to the lack of range and longer charging times compared to refuelling with petrol. Personally, I do not find any major advantages in daily use, but rather some drawbacks: limited range, charging stations sometimes hard to locate or out of service, and high purchase cost of the vehicle.
→ Probability of returning to internal combustion: 70%.
Nathalie. Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur.
I switched to electric to save on fuel costs. I estimate that two-thirds of my clients are convinced by electric after a journey with me. The low running costs, far below petrol, and savings on maintenance are definite advantages, as is the driving comfort. However, the range is sometimes insufficient to cover a full day without recharging, and some colleagues have encountered difficulties when reselling their electric vehicle.
→ Probability of returning to combustion engines: 0%.
Pascal. Île-de-France.
I am a taxi driver and chose a 100% electric car mainly for the reduction in cost per kilometre, but before making the switch, I waited for manufacturers to make progress in terms of range. Overall, my clients are satisfied, but some fear having to stop during the journey to recharge… mostly a psychological concern. Personally, I love the driving comfort, especially thanks to the single pedal and reduced noise, which helps reduce fatigue at the wheel. The main challenge remains managing range and charging times.
→ Probability of returning to combustion engines: 0%.
Samir. Hauts-de-France.
I benefited from a year of free charging and a 0% loan for the purchase of an electric vehicle, so I didn’t hesitate for long! (laughs) My clients particularly appreciate the calm on board, which makes for a more pleasant journey, and personally, I feel more relaxed at the wheel. I see absolutely no drawbacks to electric.
→ Probability of returning to combustion engines: 0%.
*Names and regions changed for reasons of confidentiality
