In a future move, Germany's Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BBK) aims to equip taxis with LED advertising screens for emergency warnings. The goal is to broadcast messages about impending disasters, like extreme icy roads or terror alerts, to the public. After signing contracts with a display provider, up to 600 warning taxis could soon patrol cities such as Berlin, Frankfurt, and Munich.
Thomas Kroker, head of Taxi München, has already noticed around 8 of his colleagues driving with the new displays. However, he remains hesitant about their long-term viability due to potential damage from harsh weather conditions. Despite this, Kroker highlights the income-generating potential of these displays, with targeted ads providing twice the revenue compared to traditional advertising.
BBK President Ralph Tiesler emphasizes the value of diverse warning media to reach people in various life situations. The use of cab LED screens adds to the mix, ensuring a broader reach for emergency notifications. Despite its potential benefits, Munich cab driver Thomas Kroker declares that rooftop displays are not viable for his minibus.
If implemented, this emergency warning system could benefit both the public and taxi operators. For the public, the system offers real-time information during emergencies, promoting awareness and facilitating quick responses. Cab drivers could generate additional revenue and enhance their reputation while contributing to public safety and information dissemination.
