Taxi Firm Reduces Travellers’ Environmental Impact

Taxi Firm Reduces Travellers’ Environmental Impact

Christchurch’s only CarbonZero-certified taxi fleet will be launched this Friday, 29 October. First Direct are the only Christchurch taxi company that are certified as being zero net emitters of greenhouse gases.

To mark this achievement, the First Direct fleet are rebranding their fleet with a new livery. At a launch event at the Chateau Regency this Friday, Associate Minister of Transport Nathan Guy will unveil the first of the rebranded vehicles. Local MP David Carter will be in attendance.

The new brand design means that taxi-users will easily identify First Direct taxis and recognise the significant environmental benefits of taking a First Direct taxi.

“We have always believed in providing an assurance of value-for-money for our customers. We now also provide the assurance to our customers that taking a First Direct taxi will minimise their impact on the environment,” said Pam Jackman, First Direct’s Managing Director.

CarbonZero certification means that First Direct have monitored, reduced and off-set their greenhouse gas emissions. This has been achieved through a combination of reduced fuel consumption, low emission fuels, and the purchase of carbon credits to offset remaining emissions.

This means that travellers can be assured that any journey in a First Direct taxi will have a zero net impact on their personal or corporate greenhouse gas emissions.

First Direct’s greenhouse gas emissions reductions have been significant, with much of the reduction having been achieved through the introduction of hybrid-powered vehicles. First Direct was the first South Island taxi firm to introduce hybrid-powered taxis. Hybrids now make up 40% of First Direct’s 130-strong taxi fleet. Hybrids, such as the Toyota Prius and Camry, are powered by a combination of both petrol and electricity. The hybrid power systems deliver significant reductions in fuel usage.

First Direct has achieved further greenhouse gas emission reductions through the introduction of a GPS-based despatch system, driver practice training and strict vehicle emissions standards. All vehicles joining the fleet must achieve an emission standard of less than 200 grams per kilometre.

“We are proud of our comprehensive approach to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Our GPS system and the individual commitment of our drivers to good driving practice are significant contributors to our environmental performance,” said Pam Jackman.

The spectacular new First Direct taxi livery features a large splash of irregular green chequers on the traditionally all-white vehicles. This represents the chequerboard pattern created by an aerial view of farm paddocks across the Canterbury plains. First Direct are proud to be a 100% Canterbury company and to state their commitment to Canterbury’s environment.

The new First Direct brand was conceived and designed by Claude and Associates of Christchurch.

About First Direct

First Direct is the great success story of the Christchurch taxi industry and industry deregulation.

Starting in 1990 with 10 cabs operating from a sunroom in a house in Heathcote, the company has grown to become the preferred transport provider for many large and small businesses, government departments, schools, health providers, rest homes, hotels, motels, airlines, and thousands of Christchurch residents.

The secret to First Direct's success is a commitment to friendly, professional service and a culture of innovation that makes them stand out from other taxi companies.

The brand launch will occur at the Chateau Regency, 10am Friday 29 October.

ENDS

© Scoop Media