Brussels Extends Fossil Fuel Taxi Lifespan Ahead of 2027 Zero-Emission Mandate
Brussels taxi operators received a two-year extension to replace older combustion-engine vehicles, giving existing fossil-fuel cabs a maximum operational lifespan of nine years instead of seven. Brussels State Secretary Karine Lalieux announced the adjustment to ease the economic transition toward an all-electric fleet. The mandatory rule requiring all newly registered taxis to emit zero emissions starting January 1, 2027, remains fully in place.
The policy shift addresses a specific crunch in the local transport market. BRUZZ reported that Brussels Mobility data shows 300 to 350 combustion-engine cars face mandatory retirement in 2027. Those vehicles now have until 2029 to comply with the phase-out. For electric vehicles, hydrogen cars, and taxis for persons with limited mobility, the age limit increases from eight to ten years.
Brussels Allows Combustion Engine Replacements for Damaged Taxis
The Brussels capital region currently counts 3,129 taxis, with 2,430 still running on traditional combustion engines—representing more than three-quarters of the active fleet. To accommodate operators during repairs, the government will permit the temporary use of a replacement combustion-engine vehicle for up to one year if a primary car suffers damage, mechanical failure, fire, or theft. Officials also carved out a general exemption from the zero-emission mandate for taxis for people who are less mobile, aiming to protect service availability across the city.
Lalieux noted that the regional government plans to accelerate the installation of 100 to 150 fast-charging points by the end of 2028. Authorities are also considering granting app-based street taxis—such as those operating through Uber and Bolt—access to designated bus lanes, a privilege currently restricted to stand taxis.
Brussels Taxi Federation Opposes Zero-Emission Requirements
The Brussels Taxi Federation remains strongly opposed to the upcoming zero-emission requirements. BTF President Abdel Sabbani criticized the mandate in an interview with BRUZZ, arguing that electric vehicles are not yet functionally equivalent to combustion cars. Sabbani pointed to higher purchase costs, expensive battery replacement expenses following minor defects, and low resale values.
Drivers also face operational bottlenecks due to limited charging infrastructure. According to Sabbani, drivers currently spend one to two hours daily recharging vehicles instead of generating fares. While numerous drivers have raised concerns regarding electromagnetic radiation during long shifts behind the wheel, no scientific evidence currently confirms those physical complaints.
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