Innovative Taxis Roll onto Los Angeles County Streets

WEST COVINA, Calif., Dec. 2, 2011 /PRNewswire-iReach/ --  1-800-TAXICAB of Los Angeles County announced its grand opening today.  The new taxi service brings enhanced transportation service options to area residents of a vast swathe of LA County from East LA to Covina in the North, and Lynwood, Downey, Compton, Norwalk and Whittier to the South. 

(Photo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20111202/CG16391)

The 1-800-TAXICAB fleet of taxis uses the latest technology to better serve passengers.  Innovations include GPS-based computer-aided dispatching for enhanced response times, back-seat payment devices (also known as "PIMs"), and online and text-based ordering.

"We are excited to serve the community with more vehicles and enhanced technology," said 1-800-TAXICAB of LA County President Roel Mazariegos.  "Our independent contractor drivers come from the community and are excited to serve it with enhanced transportation options."

Computer aided GPS technology allows passengers to enjoy more efficient taxi dispatching by matching nearby 1-800-TAXICAB taxis with current reservations.  The PIM units allow passengers to pay for their ride with any major credit card simply by swiping the card in the PIM unit in the back-seat.

The fleet is aggressively utilizing new technology as part of an overall plan to provide industry-leading quality service.  Passengers can make reservations in many ways, including using the text code TAXIS, ordering online, or simply using their smart phones for easy, one-click calling or online reservations.

"Using technology effectively serves us in two ways," said William "Bill" Rouse, 1-800-TAXICAB of LA County CEO.  "First, it means more efficient service for passengers.  Secondly, it allows us to provide more fares per shift to our independent contractor drivers." 

1-800-TAXICAB is the first multi-state taxi franchise serving the United States. Locally owned and operated franchises are opening throughout the country, while local licensees provide service in non-franchised areas.  As a national taxi enterprise, passengers can call the easy-to-remember phone number, "1-800-TAXICAB" nationwide for taxi service.

In Los Angeles County, the 1-800-TAXICAB fleet has made a commitment to "green service," with a substantial portion of the current fleet comprised of environmentally-friendly Toyota Prius sedans.

"We are excited to use fuel-efficient hybrids as one element of a comprehensive commitment to the environment and the local community," said Mazariegos.  "The hybrids also benefit independent drivers with better fuel economy."

Aside from utilizing new technology, though, 1-800-TAXICAB emphasizes customer service in its business approach.

"At the end of the day, the most enduring competitive advantage is excellent customer service," said Kia Tehrany, Operations Manager.  "We use technology to help us provide the best in customer service.  It is paramount that independent contractor drivers have the latest tools in their efforts to serve the passenger."

Taxi drivers can learn more and request information about driving a 1-800-TAXICAB taxi in Los Angeles County at http://www.1800taxicablacounty.com. 

About the 1-800-TAXICAB Franchise System
The 1-800-TAXICAB Franchise is the first U.S. based multi-state taxicab franchise.  The 1-800-TAXICAB system connects passengers to taxi service throughout the United States.  The mission of the 1-800-TAXICAB franchise is to offer high quality taxi related services through an industry-leading national taxi enterprise.  Passengers can call 1-800-TAXICAB nationwide to order taxi service from a local franchise location, or, in cities without a franchisee, order taxi service from an independent local taxi company on the 1-800-TAXICAB referral network.  1-800-TAXICAB connects passengers to taxi service via telephone, sms Text message, online booking, or smartphone applications.  Visit http://www.1800taxicab.com to learn more about 1-800-TAXICAB or to order a taxi.

Media Contact: Mark Adkins, Widestream Enterprises, Inc, 801-590-3276, mark@taxi-fran.com

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