David Pieris Motor Company (Private) Limited, Sri Lanka’s largest automotive company, launched E-drive, a model electric three-wheeler (tuk-tuk) taxi service for public transportation on Wednesday. The launch marks a new chapter in passenger transport in Sri Lanka, as it is the first time that an electric taxi service has been introduced in the country.
E-drive is a pilot project that will initially operate in Colombo and its immediate suburbs. The vehicles can easily be identified due to their white and green branding. The service will be available from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. from Monday to Saturday. Passengers can hail down the vehicles on the road, book them via the YOGO taxi-hailing mobile app, or call a dedicated hotline.
The E-drive vehicles are powered by a 72V lithium-ion battery pack that provides a range of up to 100 kilometers on a single charge. The vehicles are also equipped with a number of safety features, including ABS brakes and airbags.
The launch of E-drive is a significant step forward for Sri Lanka’s transition to a cleaner and more sustainable transportation system. Electric vehicles produce zero emissions, which can help to improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. They are also quieter than traditional vehicles, which can make them more pleasant to ride in.
The E-drive taxi service is expected to be popular with both passengers and drivers. Passengers will benefit from the cleaner and quieter ride, while drivers will save money on fuel costs. The company is also offering a number of incentives to drivers, including a monthly salary and a commission on each ride.
The E-drive taxi service is a welcome addition to Sri Lanka’s public transportation system. It is a cleaner, more sustainable, and more affordable way to get around. The company is hoping to expand the service to other parts of the country in the future.
Quotes:
- “We are excited to launch E-drive, Sri Lanka’s first electric taxi service. This is a major milestone in our journey towards a cleaner and more sustainable transportation system,” said Jayantha Ratnayake, Executive Director of David Pieris Holdings (Private) Limited and David Pieris Automotive.
- “E-drive is a great opportunity for drivers to save money on fuel costs and earn a good living. We are offering a number of incentives to drivers, including a monthly salary and a commission on each ride,” said Rohana Dissanayake, Group Chairman and Managing Director of David Pieris Motor Company (Private) Limited.
- “E-drive is a great option for passengers who are looking for a cleaner, quieter, and more affordable way to get around. The vehicles are easy to hail down and the service is available from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. from Monday to Saturday,” said a passenger who recently used the E-drive taxi service.
