Calling larger taxis: a ranking of the most popular.
Larger taxis, such as the Hiace, which can carry up to six to nine passengers, are used in a variety of situations and are called differently in different regions and by different taxi companies. Below is a ranking of the most popular common ways to call them.
All one-boxes and minivans
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Toyota Alphard/ Gran Ace
Up to 5 passengers.
Approx. 4 suitcases (M)
Toyota Hiace.
Up to 9 passengers.
Approx. 10 suitcases (M)
No. 1: Jumbo Taxi
This is the most commonly used name in Japan and refers to a 9-seater Hiace, for example. It is particularly often used for group travel and airport transfers.
- Most common and easily understood nameIs.
- This is a clear indication that they are suitable for moving large numbers of people.
- station wagon-taxi(Wagon Taxi).
Wagon taxis refer to vehicles identified as 'wagons'. They are not as large as jumbo taxis and are often used for vehicles with a capacity of around 6-7 passengers.
No. 2: MiniVan Taxi.
This designation is particularly common in English-speaking countries, but is also used by some people in Japan; it refers to vehicles with seating for seven or eight passengers.
- This is a specific term for the characteristics of the vehicle type.
- This often refers to minivan-type taxis such as the Toyota Voxy.
3rd: large taxis.
- This term emphasises the fact that they are larger than a typical taxi.
- Sometimes used almost synonymously with jumbo taxis.
4th: Hiace Taxi.
- Sometimes the name of the vehicle model is used as it is. This name is particularly common in regions where the Hiace is used as a standard.
No. 5: Large Taxi
- Name focusing on the size of the vehicle. Sometimes used in Japan for clarity.
No. 6: Chartered Taxi
- Name used for group or long-distance operations. Sometimes this name is used when the vehicle is used for tourism purposes.
No. 7: Group Taxi
- It is sometimes used to highlight services for families and groups.
Other calls.
- Hire:. It is sometimes used when the image is more exclusive.
- Pick-up and drop-off vehicles:. It may be used to provide transport services to and from specific locations.
- Charter taxi:. Sometimes used for private use by groups.
Reasons for differences in terminology
- Regional differences:. The general terminology may vary from region to region.
- Differences between taxi companies:. Each taxi company may adopt its own calling system.
- Different vehicle types:. Various other types of vehicles are used in addition to the Hiace and are therefore sometimes referred to by their model name.
- Differentiated use scenarios:. The terminology may change depending on the situation of use.
Points to consider when choosing what to call them, e.g. in online searches
- Objective. The appropriate terminology depends on the purpose, e.g. whether you are moving a large group of people or a lot of luggage.
- Region:. Choosing a calling method that is common in the area you will be using will help you arrange a taxi smoothly.
- Taxi companies:. It is advisable to contact the taxi company you want to use to find out what types of vehicles are available and what they are called.
summary
Larger taxis can be called variously jumbo taxis, minivan taxis or large taxis. Which one is used depends on the purpose, the area and the taxi company.
