The government is examining new rules for using Russian-made cars in taxi services and car-sharing platforms. An official publication from the Kremlin indicates that President Vladimir Putin has issued instructions to explore this policy direction, with the aim of strengthening national capabilities in automotive manufacture while shaping how vehicles used for passenger transport are sourced and operated within Russia.
The formulation in the document calls for evaluating the development and practical implementation of localization requirements for cars employed in passenger taxis and car-sharing services. This includes consideration of the potential production volumes within the Russian automotive industry and how these volumes might align with local demand for these transportation services. The initiative reflects a broader strategy to align vehicle procurement with domestic manufacturing capacity, potentially influencing how fleets are assembled and sourced in the domestic market.
A progress report on this instruction is expected by 1 August, according to the directives accompanying the order. The government is signaling a structured timeline to assess feasibility, implementation steps, and any necessary regulatory adjustments to support a national localization approach without compromising service reliability or safety standards for riders and drivers.
There has been public discussion about trends in the taxi and car-sharing sector, including concerns about safety and risk. Earlier observations noted a rise in traffic incidents involving taxi and car-sharing vehicles during the first months of the year, with a 15 percent increase compared to the same period in the previous year. This data has been reported by insurance market analysis, highlighting the importance of robust safety measures, driver training, and vehicle maintenance as fleets evolve. Stakeholders in the industry emphasize the role of proactive regulation and disciplined fleet management in mitigating risk while supporting a dynamic mobility landscape.
In Moscow, the city administration has previously supported taxi and car-sharing growth through subsidies, underscoring the aim of maintaining one of the world’s youngest taxi fleets. Financial incentives and subsidies can help operators upgrade vehicle age and safety features, contributing to improved service quality and rider experience. Policy makers note that continued support for fleet modernization can align urban mobility with broader economic and safety objectives, ensuring that transportation remains efficient and reliable for residents and visitors alike.