These taxis are owned by the government and leased out to drivers. They are strictly for the use of locals who pay in pesos. Foreigners, who pay in dollars, may not be picked up. It does happen, of course, but if the driver is caught, he's in trouble. The taxis for foreigners are new Japanese or European cars with airconditioning, a nice sound system, and other quality appointments. Many Cubans, of course, resent it that they are denied access to the best facilities and goods and services, as if to be Cuban means to be second class.