One of the first private hire and taxi firms to embrace electric car technology has added five new fully-electric MG5 estates to its fleet.
Blackpool-based Premier Taxis, which began operating electric taxis in 2015, says the MG5s will replace Toyota Auris Hybrids on its fleet and be used around Lancashire, as well as for transfers to Manchester Airport where the large luggage capacity is useful.
Premier Taxis is gradually converting its entire fleet to electric-only due to the large reductions in running costs as well as positive feedback from passengers.
The MG5 went on sale in autumn 2020 and is the UK’s first and only all-electric estate, with a luggage capacity of up to 1,456 litres – 578 litres with rear seats up – and an EV-only range of 214 miles.
MG Motor’s commercial director, Guy Pigounakis, said, “The private hire and airport transfer market is one where MG5 EV has an amazing opportunity thanks to its unique market position as the only EV station wagon on the market.
“It also has the potential to offer huge savings to operators regardless of fleet size.”
Premier Taxis driver Steve Foster added, “I have already been managing more than 200 miles on a single charge. I plug the car in at home at 5pm and that will last me until the following day at 5pm.
“Our old cars cost £22 to get to Manchester Airport. With the MG it will cost hardly anything to complete the same trip so they make great sense for a taxi driver.”
