Maroon-roofed Al Million taxis will expand its fleet from 300 to 500 cars by December, the company has announced.

The new operator, one of three that have tied up with Mowasalat to operate taxis in Qatar, debuted to mixed reviews in July, with some saying their drivers were more polite, and others expressing disappointment about their unfamiliarity with the roads.

Al Million must charge the same rates as their all-green counterparts, but has said “an enhanced customer experience” will set them apart from competitors.

Meanwhile, dissatisfaction with Karwa’s traditional fleet of taxis, which now total more than 2,500 vehicles, continues to grow, with residents complaining about rude, late drivers who overcharge for their services.

During Eid holidays, a shortage of transportation options at the malls, for example, prompted many operators to negotiate with customers instead of using the meters (though technically, no meter means the ride is free).

Will the addition of 200 more Al Million taxis help tip the balance in favor of the consumer? Or will the two new operators need to enter the market before things start to change?

Thoughts?