this buddy guy dropped me off like 2 weeks ago. I asked him why he would use such a fancy car for taxi service, he said because he would still get a lot of money for it after they retire it from taxi fleet, so the residual washes out the upfront cost right now.
He says he puts in regular(even though i think all the hybrids lexus's require premium) and gets good enough gas mileage that it doesn't impact his bottom line too much compared to a similar corolla or Prius. Also maintenance is the same as a Prius.
I always thought color was a wrap, but apparently its paint. he said if they get into a fender bender, the paint is cheaper and easier to correct than rewrapping the car.
im going to ask for his car every time i take a cab now.