To address rising prices and a shortage of taxi vehicles, a state-supported program is needed to subsidize the purchase of domestic cars for taxi fleets. This perspective is echoed in reports from TASS, citing the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs, RSPP.
The central point is clear: measures should not only bolster the domestic automobile industry but also directly assist the taxi sector. A structured state subsidy program could incentivize taxi fleets to acquire newer, more economical vehicles, easing operational costs and supporting overall service quality.
There are ongoing concerns about fleet renewal within taxi services. With aging fleets and high usage, many vehicles reach the end of their useful life within about three years, while the market for affordable new cars has tightened in Russia. This creates a cycle of higher maintenance costs and limited replacement options for operators, potentially limiting service availability for riders.
Recent statements from Artem Kiryanov, Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Economic Policy and head of the Russian Taxpayers’ Union, suggest that without intervention the number of taxi drivers and vehicles could continue to decline. In a challenging period for the industry, vehicle prices are also expected to rise, further stressing operators and customers alike.
Earlier reports noted that authorities had accused a major ride-hailing company of inflating service prices, underscoring market dynamics that impact affordability and accessibility for riders. [Cited: TASS, via RSPP, and related industry commentary]