Chinese Taxi

Chinese taxis have changed a lot in the past decade. They used to be mostly old, gas-powered sedans—often worn out, not especially clean, and with drivers who preferred cash. Now, in most cities, they’re modern, clean, and mostly electric.

The shift to electric vehicles has been rapid, especially in major cities, where government policies pushed hard for green transportation. Many taxi fleets upgraded to BYD or other Chinese EV brands. These newer taxis are quieter, cleaner, and cheaper to operate.

Another big change: payment. Forget cash. Most riders now scan a QR code—usually stuck to the back of the passenger seat—and pay through apps like WeChat Pay or Alipay. It’s fast, contactless, and almost universal. You often don’t even talk to the driver—just scan, ride, and go.