Dushanbe's streets are humming with a new energy as Chinese-made electric vehicles dominate the taxi lanes of Tajikistan's capital. In a bold environmental push, city authorities have mandated a full transition to electric taxis by September – a deadline local drivers are meeting with fleets of BYD, JAG, and CHERY models from China.
"These cars handle our mountain roads better than anything else," said Farhod, a driver swapping his aging sedan for a BYD Tang SUV. "The heating works in -20°C winters, and the battery lasts all day." Chinese brands now account for 48% of Dushanbe's EV market according to Koinot Auto, the region's largest distributor.
The shift carries economic significance for Central Asia's developing economies. At $18,000-$25,000 per vehicle, Chinese EVs offer mid-tier pricing with premium features like panoramic roofs and advanced driver assists – a formula outpacing European rivals. "Maintenance costs dropped 60% since switching," noted taxi fleet operator Lola Mirzoeva.
This transition aligns with China's growing role in Central Asian infrastructure development. As Dushanbe aims to cut transport emissions by 35% before 2026, the EV mandate demonstrates how regional climate goals are driving cross-border technological partnerships.
