Does Traffic Congestion Increase Taxi Fares?
2 Answers
Regulations vary by region, leading to different outcomes. For example, in Nanjing, taxi fares do not increase due to prolonged waiting times. However, in Beijing, they do. Beijing regulations stipulate that when a taxi's speed drops below 12 km/h, the meter starts charging based on time, with every 5 minutes counted as traveling 1 km. Here are some methods to reduce fuel consumption: 1. Avoid prolonged engine idling: An idling engine consumes significantly more fuel than when the vehicle is in motion. Therefore, if the vehicle is stationary for an extended period, such as when waiting for someone, it is best to turn off the engine. During cold starts, warming up the engine should not exceed one minute; maintaining a few minutes of low-speed driving is sufficient. 2. Maintain good driving habits: Smooth and gentle driving is the most fuel-efficient. During acceleration, avoid stomping on the throttle. The correct method is to accelerate smoothly and maintain a steady speed once a certain velocity is reached. In congested areas, always assess the road conditions ahead to avoid sudden braking.
Traffic jams indeed cause taxi fares to rise, primarily due to the pricing mechanism. Most taxis use a dual charging system based on both time and distance. During congestion, when the vehicle moves slowly or stops, the time-based fee continues to accumulate, costing money every minute. As a regular urban commuter who frequently takes taxis, I’ve experienced this multiple times during peak hours in Beijing. A 10-kilometer trip that normally costs 40 yuan can surge to 60 or 70 yuan after just half an hour of traffic—a frustrating expense. To save money, try avoiding rush hours or opting for fixed-price pre-booked rides. Many ride-hailing apps now offer real-time traffic alerts to help estimate fares and avoid unexpected costs. Beyond increasing expenses, traffic congestion also extends travel time, disrupting daily schedules.
