Canadian telecommunications company Telus along with Play Taxi Media has announced a fleet of taxis in Canada, which will include mobile device charging stations for commuters.

Telus says that 1,000 taxis in Vancouver, Toronto, Calgary and Montreal to be launched in the coming months would enable commuters to power-up their mobile phones and tablets free of charge.

Mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets have become an important medium to help stay connected with friends, family and business associates. However, constant usage may drain the battery of a device without a user realizing it. Finding a charger when you are out of your home or workplace can be difficult and Telus has found a way that can help commuters charge their devices on-the-go. 

"It's Murphy's Law that your device battery will die right when you seem to need it the most," says Anne-Marie Laberge, Vice President of Brand and Marketing Communications at Telus. "We've all been there - running late for a dinner date with friends or in between meetings when your phone dies before an important conference call. Our in-taxi chargers are just one way that we're working to put customers first - they offer a simple convenience that will go a long way in making their lives easier and more connected."

Telus will equip the upcoming taxi fleet with a power docking station that can be conveniently found at the rear of the front passenger seat headrest. Telus claims that the docking station will be able to charge any phone or tablet. For the forgetful commuters, Telus will also equip the taxis with a note on the window reminding commuters to take their mobile device before leaving the cab.

"From the late-night crowd trying to meet friends, to business professionals who need to jump on a conference call, phone charging stations in taxis are a great solution to this common predicament," notes Zachary Killam, CEO of Play Taxi Media.

Telus announced that the mobile device charging facility will be available with Blacktop & Checker Cabs in Vancouver, Ambassador Taxis in Toronto, Mayfair Taxi in Calgary and Taxi Union in Montreal. Telus also indicated that it has plans to grow to additional taxi companies in the near term.