According to the union, the government is legislating without consultation and without the necessary infrastructure, turning taxis into “an experimental field for political impressions.” Greece ranks second to last in electric charging infrastructure in Europe, SATA notes, yet is the first to impose compulsory electrification on professional taxi drivers.
SATA’s announcement
SATA accuses the government of pursuing “a plan without infrastructure and without social justice,” highlighting:
– Greece’s poor charging infrastructure compared to the rest of Europe.
– High and unstable electricity prices that make operating electric taxis unpredictable and often unprofitable for 24-hour commercial use.
– Prohibitive purchase costs for electric vehicles at a time of rising interest rates, insurance premiums and tax burdens.
– Limited and insufficient subsidies that fail to meet the needs of small professionals.
“We are not opposed to electric mobility,” the union states. “We are opposed to a mandatory and abrupt transition that economically wipes out the sector. Compulsory electrification from 1 January 2026 will exclude thousands of small operators, promote market concentration and serve specific business interests.”
SATA demands
– Withdrawal of mandatory electrification, including the projected 2035 requirement.
– A realistic transition period.
– A public plan for dedicated taxi charging infrastructure.
– Substantial and accessible subsidies for all drivers.
The union warns that the 48-hour strike will be repeated and escalated if the government does not respond.
“The taxi sector cannot withstand further experimentation. A ‘green transition’ cannot be built on the bleak future of workers,” SATA concludes.
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