Abu Dhabi: Featuring noise-reducing glass partitions and leather seats, a fleet of 270 luxury taxi cars will be rolled out over the next two weeks under a trial period.

The Mercedes Vito Compact vehicles will roam the streets of the capital and will contain space to accommodate those with special needs as the five passenger seats are arranged to face each other.

“Drivers will be given new uniforms and will have a greater amount of privacy as they will be able to talk on the phone without disturbing passengers and vice versa. Additionally, travellers will be able to communicate with their driver using an intercom. Depending on consumer feedback and the success of the trial phase, we will decide whether to include these as a permanent addition to the existing fleet,” said Mohammad Al Hosani, director of Franchise and Licensing at the Centre for Regulation of Transport for Hire Cars (TransAD).

The tariff for the new vehicles will remain unchanged.

“Future plans may include the installation of free WiFi for those on board the vehicles, especially since most users are typically those with limited to average income,” said Mohammad Darwish Al Qamzi, general manager of TransAD.

The fleet will run on eco-friendly green diesel and will be more readily available to those who book their taxis through the Abu Dhabi Taxi smartphone application.

Officials revealed that there are 10 women drivers for this fleet with a possibility of that number increasing depending on demand.

“The aim is to encourage even those who do have personal cars to opt for taking a taxi due to the luxurious nature of these vehicles and the comfort of the trip,” Al Hosani added.

Last year, TransAD introduced a set of hybrid Toyota Camrys that run on both diesel and electricity within the capital.

Mercedes Vito cars also serve Abu Dhabi International Airport with meters starting at Dh25. Officials have not announced whether a complete transformation of the current fleet will see an eventual increase in tariffs. “A cost analysis study is required before that could be determined,” Al Hosani said.