6/7/2007 9:00 AM
Red Top Turns to Hybrid Cabs
Article from: Sun Gazette (June 7 2007)

Arlington-based Red Top Cab has announced plans to add gas-electric hybrid vehicles to its fleet, in an effort to reduce vehicle emissions.

The firm has placed an initial order for five Ford Escape hybrid models, which are slated to arrive in mid-July.

County government officials have awarded Red Top Cab special-use certificates to operate hybrid vehicles as taxicabs.

“The urban setting in Arlington is an ideal environment for hybrid/electric taxicabs,” Red Top's Charlie King said in a statement. “The dense traffic conditions prevalent in Northern Virginia result in vehicles idling for extended periods of time. This is where the hybrid shines.”

King said that Ford Escapes currently are employed as taxis in New York, San Francisco and Chicago, and average 36 mpg in city driving conditions. In comparison, the Ford Crown Victoria - the mainstay of most taxi fleets - averages 16 or 17 mpg in city driving.

Red Top Cab, which has served Arlington since 1964, has the largest fleet of radio-dispatched taxicabs in Northern Virginia.