In a move to address Miami's growing urban street congestion, a new start-up is turning to the city's waterways with a solution. E-LIXR is set to launch its pilot water taxi service program, offering a fresh approach to Miami's transportation challenges.
As Miami grapples with increasing commute times, now averaging 58 minutes, E-LIXR aims to provide a timely alternative. The company will leverage Biscayne Bay's underutilized waterways to provide an alternative to traditional road transportation. By focusing on electric-powered vessels, E-LIXR seeks to reduce carbon emissions and alleviate road congestion, contributing to a healthier urban environment.
The post-pandemic landscape has shifted public perception of transportation, with greater emphasis on health, safety, and personal space. E-LIXR's water taxi service is designed to address these evolving needs, offering a more comfortable and enjoyable commute experience that encourages users to rediscover the pleasure in their daily travels.
Behind E-LIXR's ambitious vision is a team of seasoned professionals. Co-founders Sam Payrovi and Nathalie Paiva, along with Director of Marine Operations Aaron Leatherwood, bring a diverse set of skills to the table. Payrovi's background in finance and business operations, coupled with Paiva's expertise in hospitality and luxury brand management, provides a solid foundation for scaling a consumer-focused business.
Leatherwood's extensive experience as a US Coast Guard licensed Chief Engineer and former CEO of RMK Merrill Stevens shipyard adds crucial technical and operational knowledge to the mix. This blend of financial acumen, customer experience expertise, and marine operations know-how positions E-LIXR uniquely in the competitive Miami transportation market.
E-LIXR's initial "Pre-lectric" service will feature two Axopar vessels, offering a premium water taxi experience. The company plans to transition to an all-electric fleet in 2025, introducing the nation's first zero-emission waterborne transportation service. With an intuitive online booking platform and strategically located docking stations, E-LIXR hopes to redefine multi-modal urban transportation in Miami.
