Auto Drive EV has announced a strategic partnership with Grab Thailand to introduce the “Electric Taxi Rental Project,” aiming to provide alternatives for both traditional taxi and ride-hailing drivers to rent electric taxis to provide on-demand transportation service via the Grab app, with a daily rental fee starting at just THB 820. This initiative aligns with the government’s policy in promoting the use of electric vehicles (EVs) and the Grab EV programme, which encourages EV adoption among Grab driver- and delivery-partners in Thailand. Under this collaboration, 2,000 electric taxis are targeted to be available primarily in tourist cities across Thailand by 2025.

Dr. Akaranun Ariyasripong, Chairman of Auto Drive EV Public Company Limited, revealed, “Auto Drive EV has been operating electric taxi rental services since 2023, starting with the model of MG EP Plus. Currently, we have over 200 electric taxis in service, serving both Bangkok and Phuket. Our collaboration with Grab Thailand began last year as part of the Grab EV programme, aimed at driving EV adoption among Grab driver-partners. This provides them with stable earnings, helps them save on fuel expenses by replacing internal combustion engine cars, and contributes to environmental protection by reducing air pollution, particularly addressing the PM 2.5 in Thailand.”

“This year, Auto Drive EV has entered a 2-year agreement (2024 – 2025) with Grab Thailand to jointly develop the ‘Electric Taxi Rental Project,’ offering electric taxis to traditional taxi drivers and Grab driver-partners. Our goal is to deliver up to 2,000 taxis within the next year and expand service coverage nationwide, targeting key tourist cities.”

Worachat Luxkanalode, Country Head of Grab Thailand, said, “Promoting EV adoption among our driver- and delivery-partners is one of Grab Thailand’s commitment to advancing Grab’s environmental sustainability goals. Hence, we have launched and actively executed the Grab EV programme to encourage and facilitate access to EVs for our partners providing on-demand transportation and delivery services. Our collaboration spans across various partners, including EV manufacturers, distributors, rental service operators, charging station providers, and even financial institutions, aiming at eliminating barriers hindering our driver-partners from transitioning to EVs.”

“The launch of the Electric Taxi Rental Project with Auto Drive EV marks another significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to driving EV adoption in Thailand. The project specifically targets the eco-conscious traditional taxi drivers and Grab driver-partners, providing them earning opportunity by offering transportation services with electric taxis. With a competitive rental rate starting at just 820 baht a day, this fee will be deducted from the daily income earned through Grab service provision. The service has already commenced in Bangkok and Phuket, where users can access electric taxi services through GrabTaxi VIP and JustGrab services and activate the Grab EV ride feature to increase the chance of riding with EVs”

“We are confident that this project will bring significant benefits to both traditional taxi drivers and Grab driver-partners. Not only will they gain access to high-performance electric taxis with quiet engines, greatly appreciated by passengers, but it will also aid in reducing energy costs, thereby increasing drivers’ income. Importantly, it contributes to mitigating air pollution and fostering a cleaner environment for all, perfectly aligning with Auto Drive EV’s mission.” concluded Akaranun.