[ucsdrake]

Unfortunately I don't have any articles to back this up, just anecdotal discussions with drivers in Germany, but;

First: they're a domestic car manufacturer, lower cost to deliver to local drivers. Second: they're able to offer specific taxi options, such as manual front seat adjustment (vs automagic). Third: they offer a substantial discount to taxi drivers (they justify the discount through the marketing value of having large number of individuals ride in their cars).

Such discounts for marketing purposes is quite common in the industry. I've also heard dealerships sell cars to rental car companies at a loss, just to make sure customers have access to their cars (and will possibly consider buying that type of car for the next purchase).

[tixocloud]

Would you have any idea what the cost to build an E class might be? Just wondering how the various taxes around the world affect its affordability.