Electric vehicle pioneer, Better Place has just received an award from the Japanese government to begin a pilot program for the world's first electric taxis using switchable batteries.

Partnering with Nihon Kotsu, Tokyo's largest taxi operator, the project will launch next year.

While taxis in Japan only represent two percent of all passenger vehicles, there are about 60,000 in Tokyo - more than New York and Paris. So if this works out, it could certainly lead to opportunities in other cities throughout the world. As well, it could add further validation for use in the personal transportation market.

Tokyo R&D Co. will supply the vehicles for the project, and will also be involved with building the battery switch site.

Jeff