News Desk
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu officially launched the government’s new electric taxi line service in Malé last night, marking a major step in the administration’s push for safer and greener urban transport. The ceremony, held at Central Park in Hulhumalé, was attended by First Lady Sajida Mohamed, cabinet ministers, MPs and senior officials from state‑owned companies.
Operated by Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC), the service begins with a fleet of 150 electric vehicles designed to navigate the city’s narrow streets. The cars — Lumin, Deep Sfive and Deep Seven models — can accommodate up to four passengers and small luggage, and will operate 24 hours a day.
MTCC Managing Director DCP (Retd) Ahmed Saudi said the initiative would “revolutionise” the transport system and address the long‑standing shortage of taxis for domestic travel. “This is a solution brought by President Muizzu,” he said, adding that the service will be integrated into MTCC’s existing public transport network, which already serves more than 27,000 daily bus users.
Fares will be regulated by the Ministry of Transport, and bookings can be made through a dedicated web application. Transport Minister Mohamed Ameen said the government plans to expand the service to Addu City later this year, noting that similar transport reforms are underway to support private operators and ease registration requirements for taxi centres.
“The purpose of such services is to promote the private sector,” Ameen said. “Even with government entry, private taxi centres will continue to operate without disruption.”
The launch comes amid broader efforts to reduce carbon emissions and improve urban mobility. The electric fleet aligns with the President’s environmental agenda.
Saudi confirmed that the service will soon be accessible through a unified digital platform, offering both ride‑hailing and online payment options. However, attempts to register on the app via mobile and email failed this morning.
MTCC has announced that the taxi service will be free of charge from 3 April to 9 April. Bookings during this period can be made through the toll‑free number 1655. The company said the week‑long trial is intended to gauge the service, test operations and gather public feedback before full rollout.
To give readers context on the vehicles being introduced, CHANGAN Automobile is one of China’s four major automotive groups, with more than four decades of manufacturing experience and a global network of 21 production bases and 76 plants. The company’s portfolio includes its own brands such as Changan UNI, Changan NEVO, Changan LCV, Deepal and Avatr, alongside joint ventures with Ford, Mazda and JMC. CHANGAN’s self‑owned brands have sold more than 20 million vehicles, and in 2025 the group marked the roll‑off of its 30 millionth car at a ceremony in Chongqing.
