Route taxis, as we know them today, began operating in Penza in the 1990s. However, their predecessors existed in the city during the Russian Empire. The end of the route was located near the former philharmonic hall, and passenger transportation was organized by merchant Konstantin Martemyanov in 1913. Although his enterprise is hard to call large, as there was only one vehicle in the fleet, a Ford converted into a minibus. The route ran from Kirova Street to Akhunskiye Dachi, and before its opening, the idea was discussed in the City Duma. Initially, the deputies were skeptical of Martemyanov's initiative, but ultimately decided not to hinder it and allowed the launch of this new form of public transport. The converted Ford could accommodate up to ten people, which was beneficial for residents and workers on the right bank of the Sura. The fare was 25 kopecks, which was relatively cheap for those times, as a ride in a cab to Akhun cost almost twice as much. Due to competition with motor transport, cab drivers began to incur losses. However, the route service in Penza did not last long; the enterprise closed during World War I, and this form of transport was forgotten for almost 80 years.