A taximeter calculates the fare based on distance and time, and is usually electronic and located inside the taxi. The first taximeters were mechanical and attached to the outside of the taxi. Modern taximeters have additional features such as GPS and credit card payment options. Passengers can also get an estimate of the fare online.
A meter in a taxi is used to calculate how much passengers owe the driver based on how far the taxi traveled and how long it took. The device, usually electronic, sits on the dashboard inside the cab of the taxi and is initiated by the driver at the start of a journey. Upon reaching the destination, the driver checks the meter to see how much to charge the customer.
Wilhelm Bruhn invented the first taximeters in 1891. These taximeters were mechanically powered and attached to the outside of the taxi. As the car drove, the taximeter could be heard clicking as the numbers on it changed to mark the miles driven. Taximeters were invented before the taxi, and the first taxis got their names from the meter.
Nowadays, taximeters are usually electronic and are located inside the taxi, where the driver and passengers can read it. The taximeter goes through cycles during the course of a trip, each one marking a different stage. First, when the taxi is unoccupied, a small sign is displayed on the meter saying that the taxi is free or for hire. Then, once the passengers have entered the taxi, the meter begins to count how far the taxi has traveled and displays the current amount owed to the taxi driver.
The meter continues to function throughout the trip. When the taxi reaches its destination, the driver stops the meter and collects the money from his passengers. You can then choose to print a meter receipt and give it to customers as proof of payment.
Taximeters have additional features besides printing receipts and recording money owed. Newer electronic meters can also function as a GPS, a radio to communicate with others, and can even be used to run a credit card. All of these features ensure that both driver and passengers have a pleasant journey and that the appropriate fare is paid at the end of the trip.
Today passengers can go online and get an estimate of how much a trip will cost. This virtual taximeter requests the initial and final destination and the date the passenger will travel. It then provides an estimate of the total cost and allows the passenger to book a taxi in advance over the phone. Passengers booking a taxi in this way should note that the fare may vary depending on the circumstances of the actual trip.
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