Longer Road Life Sought By New York Taxi Owners, Drivers For Crown Victorias

May 9, 2008 12:36 p.m. EST

New York, NY (AHN) - New York City cab drivers and owners have asked the city to allow them to use their present model, mostly Crown Victorias, for a longer period beyond October.

Three months before 2008 ends, under New York's green plan, the cabs must get at least 25 miles per gallon, which will climb up to 30 miles after a year. By 2012, all 13,000 plus New York City yellow cabs must meet the city's benchmark.

At a Taxi and Limousine Commission hearing Thursday, the taxi drivers and owners reasoned most of them are not financially prepared to purchase newer models that are costlier and has less leg space.

Among the car models that satisfy the city's emission standards are hybrid, including SUVs. In batting for a shift to hybrids, TLC Commissioner Matthew Daus said, quoted by the New York Daily News, there are no studies to support the claim that the hybrids are less safe or reliable than the older, gas guzzling models. Passengers and even drivers prefer the hybrids because it cuts their fuel bills.