Greece has embarked on an exciting journey toward a sustainable future by introducing a subsidy program aimed at promoting electric taxis. This initiative not only benefits the environment but also supports taxi owners in making the switch to eco-friendly vehicles. In this blog post, we’ll explore Greece’s subsidy program for electric taxis and the incentives it offers for a cleaner and greener taxi fleet.
What Is the Subsidy Program About?
The subsidy program in Greece is designed to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in the taxi industry. It offers financial incentives to individuals and companies that own commercial passenger vehicles, particularly taxis, with the aim of transitioning to electric alternatives. The key components of the program include:
- Switch to electric: Taxi owners can apply for a subsidy when they purchase or lease an exclusively electric vehicle with zero CO2 emissions. This transition not only reduces the carbon footprint of the taxi industry but also contributes to cleaner air and a healthier environment.
- Old vehicle de-registration: To be eligible for the subsidy, taxi owners are required to mandatorily (and simultaneously) de-register an old commercial passenger vehicle, specifically an older taxi. This de-registration ensures a seamless transition to environmentally friendly vehicles, aligning with Greece’s commitment to reducing emissions.
- Smart charging points: Participants in the program can also receive subsidies for the purchase and installation of « smart » recharging points for electric vehicles. These smart charging points not only facilitate the recharging process but also contribute to the development of an advanced and efficient charging infrastructure, making it easier for taxis and other EVs to stay charged and on the road.
Who Can Benefit?
The subsidy program is open to a range of beneficiaries, including:
- Taxi owners: This program is available to all owners, whether they are sole proprietorships or companies, of taxi vehicles that are Euro 5 or older in terms of compliance with emission standards. To qualify, owners must hold 100% of the vehicle registration license. In cases where there are multiple shareholders on the license (co-owners), the application must be submitted by all the beneficiaries.
- Manufacturers/Importers: Manufacturers and importers seeking to have their products listed as eligible chargers can also benefit from the program. By encouraging the use of their products, they contribute to the growth of the electric taxi ecosystem.
Additional Benefits
Depending on specific circumstances, additional subsidies may be available:
- If the vehicle registration license is personal or belongs to more than one co-owner, the subsidy amount for the purchase or lease of an electric taxi vehicle can increase by up to 1,000 Euros in the following cases:
- The beneficiary is a person with disabilities.
- The family of the beneficiary has at least 3 dependent children.
- The beneficiary is up to 29 years old.
Application Period
The application submission period for this subsidy program began on January 9, 2023, and will conclude on December 31, 2023. Each beneficiary (i.e., each eligible Tax Identification Number) is entitled to submit only one application per license for a commercial passenger vehicle (CPV) taxi. Once you’ve submitted your application, you’ll receive a unique digital code number and be informed electronically about its progress. This system ensures transparency and allows you to make changes to your application or file an objection if it’s rejected. The subsidy amount you’re eligible for will be credited to the bank account you declare, providing a tangible benefit for participating in this eco-conscious initiative.
Greece’s subsidy program for electric taxis is not only a step forward in reducing emissions but also a significant opportunity for taxi owners to embrace sustainable transportation options. As the world shifts towards cleaner energy sources, this program aligns with Greece’s commitment to a greener and more sustainable future.
