In May of this year, we demonstrated the viability of battery switch technology, which can automatically replace a depleted EV battery with a fully-charged one in less time than it takes to fill up a gas tank. Now we are taking the next step.

In partnership with Japan’s largest taxi fleet operator, Nihon Kotsu, and with an award from the Japanese government, we are moving the demonstration into the marketplace.

Specifically, as announced two weeks ago, we will be introducing electric vehicle (EV) taxis with battery switch in Tokyo.  This initiative highlights one component of our overall solution, which includes ubiquitous networks of charge spots, switch stations, and systems that optimize the driving experience and minimize environmental impact and cost.

Why taxis?

Even though taxis account for only 2% of total passenger vehicles on Japan’s roads, they are responsible for 20% of overall passenger-vehicle emissions.  Tokyo’s taxis drive an average of 280 – 300 km (175 – 185 miles) per day – approximately ten times more than a typical Japanese passenger vehicle – which also makes them expensive to operate.  Phasing in EV taxis will increase the profitability of taxi businesses by reducing fuel and maintenance costs by over 80%, or 650,000 yen (USD $7,000) per taxi per year.

Without battery switch, an electric taxi would have to stop and charge every 160 km (100 miles).  For taxi drivers, every minute waiting for the battery to recharge is a minute that they are not working and not earning money. With battery switch, a depleted battery can be replaced in minutes, minimizing downtime and maximizing revenues.

Once proven in the context of heavily-driven taxis, other drivers will be all the more comfortable buying and driving EVs. They will be reassured that EVs are reliable not just for everyday driving, but also for long-distance trips, with battery switch eliminating delays.

Why Japan?

The Japanese auto industry has a long history of innovation, and has shown leadership in anticipating the need to reduce oil dependence by advancing hybrids and, recently, pure EVs.

Further, Japan’s key government agencies are in full support of this initiative. The Ministries of Finance and Economy, Trade and Industry recognize that EV infrastructure deployment could be an important component of the “Green New Deal,” the Ministry of Transportation supports certifying electric taxis, and the Ministry of Environment sees the current project as a natural and critical next step from the battery switch demonstration they supported in May 2009.  The density of Tokyo is also ideally suited to promote the visibility of EV taxis on the streets, enabling them to speak for the environmentally conscious.

From a logistical perspective, several taxi fleet operators (including our partner Nihon Kotsu) own the fuel stations, and they are eager to implement environmentally-friendly battery switch infrastructure at these sites. In this initial project, we look forward to tapping Japan’s world-class engineering talent as we continue to perfect the implementation of the battery switch technology at these stations.

Tokyo’s 60,000 taxis comprise the largest taxi fleet in the world.  Japan’s total taxi fleet of 250,000 represents an even more attractive market.  By proving the value of electric vehicles and battery switch technology with even a small number of taxis in a pilot project, we open the door to a significant market both in Japan and abroad.

Personally, I believe taxis in Japan provide the best service in the world, and I have heard numerous visitors say the same. The well-maintained cars and well-mannered drivers are truly impressive.  Electrifying the fleet will further enhance the already high-level image of Japanese taxis and will set an example for other cities around the world.