Representatives of call-cab drivers and taxi owners were opposed to the idea.

But he has also stood up for taxi owners.

Much as today, about 80 percent of its buyers will be taxi owners and the Government.

Instead, taxi owners and owner-drivers who choose to adopt the system have to pay $550 to $950 per cab for installation.

The idea got a lukewarm reception from taxi owners yesterday.

As a result, a group of small taxi owners has taken steps to sue the city over the new-car requirement.

Yellow taxi owners say this exacerbates a longstanding driver shortage.

Some taxi owners have said they may sue to block the plan, which must be approved by the City Council.

The vehicles also have an advantage for taxi owners: they get far better gas mileage than the sedans.

If that's true, taxi owners should be required to purchase fuel-efficient hybrid vehicles immediately.