Fuel use pattern and determinants of taxi drivers' fuel choice in Nanjing, China

Fuel use pattern is crucial to energy saving and pollution reduction, meanwhile, individual fuel choices contribute to the overall pattern of fuel use. By conducting a survey of taxi drivers in Nanjing City in China, this study analyzed the taxis' fuel use pattern in Nanjing and presents empirical evidence on the determinants of taxis' fuel choice. Results show that, the drivers' fuel choices are, to some extent, locked-in by the vehicle models or original fuel types. The inertia of switching from gasoline-powered taxis to natural gas powered ones is associated with personal characteristic factors, such as old age, long experience, and high education, whereas the inclination to fuel switching is usually observed on those who have co-drivers. The high utilization of co-driven taxis makes a better business case on the cost of converting to gas. Vehicle's features, such as validity of vehicle, modification cost during fuel switch, and engine capacity, significantly affect the fuel switch choice of taxi drivers. Seasonal factors also influence the switching choice: more taxis switched to natural gas ones in early summer. Finally, suggestion is given to reduce structural lock-in of fuel choice, cut down the cost of fuel switching, and set extra incentives for such taxi drivers as young and newer during cleaner fuel replacement in China.

► Gasoline, natural gas and diesel are three dominant fuels in taxi industry in NJC.
► Drivers' fuel choices are “locked-in” by some vehicle models or fuel types.
► Driver's characteristics, working pattern and vehicle's feature influence fuel choice.
► Seasonal factors may influence fuel choice.