You can now catch a ride in Charleston’s first hybrid taxi, but don’t look to hail the traditional yellow-colored cab. It’s green, literally. Charleston Green Taxi hit the road at the end of May with a small fleet of hybrid vehicles. 

"We're just trying to provide an economical service and reduce Charleston's carbon footprint one step at a time,” said co-owner Chris Nichols. 

He and AJ Franklin got the business idea while working as a valet doormen at a local hotel. 

“There was a need for clean cars, newer cars, reliable people, reliable cars and punctual service,” stated Nichols.

After several months of planning, they hit the road on May 23 with four hybrid vehicles decorated with green leaves. Nichols said their new taxi service has been well-received by the community. 

“People are pleasantly surprised. They say we’re the cool, new hip thing in Charleston,” Nichols added.

While the taxi service caters to tourists, it is also aimed to help locals. Charleston Green Taxi gives a discount to people who work at the Medical University of South Carolina and need a ride to the airport. 

As for the price for a ride in the green cab, Nichols said their business offers competitive taxi fare rates. 

“I’d say Yellow Cab is our main competitor at this point.”

Charleston Green Taxi drives into a business directly impacted by rising fuel prices. Nichols believes the company will survive the current market conditions because the hybrid taxis are more fuel efficient. 

“Gas prices may put a pinch on us. Fortunately, these Prius' get 48 miles per gallon and the Toyota Camry gets about 38 miles per gallon, so we have a little bit of wiggle room for now. Hopefully, they don’t hit five dollars,” Nichols explained.

For more information on the hybrid cab service, click here