More Than 200 of Madeira’s 800 Taxis Are 15 Years or Older
Madeira currently operates about 800 taxis, more than 200 of which are 15 years or older. Because of their age, the government has allowed these cars to continue operating through special license extensions. The latest extension permits them to remain in service until December 31, 2026. António Loreto from the Taxi Industry Association (AITRAM) confirmed that the association plans to request an extension until 2027.
We are requesting an extension until 2027. It wasn’t possible before, so I’m addressing it here now.
‘B’ Inspections Could Allow Older Vehicles to Operate 3–4 More Years
Paulo Pereira, representing TaxisRAM, suggests conducting “B” inspections for older taxis still in good condition.
First, because there aren’t many vehicles left to replace. There are some, but not many, because the sector itself is modernizing. What we hope and would like to see is a ‘B’ inspection for the vehicles that still need replacement, to see if they can last another 3–4 years, as some 15-year-old vehicles are in very good condition.
He also noted that some vehicles leaving the public sector fleet are being purchased by tourist companies for continued use.
New Taxi Licenses Are Debated, But There Are Already Many Players on the Market
The issuance of new taxi licenses is debated. António Loreto supports granting licenses but says it is overdue.
It should have been done before the CVDS (TVDE) appeared. Instead of issuing the CVDS in an uncontrolled way, new licenses should have been given where necessary to meet demand. Right now, taxis are facing many difficulties.
Paulo Pereira warned that the sector cannot absorb additional licenses due to the current entry of TVDE operators.
Before these TVDE vehicles entered, the transport sector was already saturated and strained, because we have around 800 taxis. In our view at Taxis-RAM, it makes no sense for municipalities to issue more licenses, as the market is already saturated
Source: RTP Madeira
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