DRIVE A2B Magazine September Issue 2020

DRIVE

Voice of the Australian Commercial Passenger Transport Industry

SEPTEMBER 2020 | EDITION 38

Which is cuter, the Microlino electric bubble car or its electric scooter companion? PAGE 20 National Magazine

Taxis, Hire Cars, Wedding cars, Limousines

Owners, Drivers, Partners, Operators

Suppliers, Networks, Booking Service Providers

Got your mind on your money, and your money on your mind?

We do too.

Claim Your Free Digital Subscription to Drive A2B magazine!

11 ISSUES

100% FREE.

( No Catch! )

DRIVE Voice of the Australian Commercial Passenger Transport Industry

JULY 2020 | EDITION 36

AUGUST 2020 | EDITION 37

STAY COVID-19 FREE!

Click here to

Subscribe for FREE

KEEP YOU AND YOUR TAXI, LIMO National Magazine

Drivers, & HIREOwners, CAR Partners, Operators

Taxis, Hire Cars, Wedding cars, Limousines

HYGIENICALLY CLEAN.

National Magazine

or Scan the

QR Code

Suppliers, Networks, Booking Service Providers

Taxis, Hire Cars, Wedding cars, Limousines

Owners, Drivers, Partners, Operators

Suppliers, Networks, Booking Service Providers

Which is cuter, the Microlino electric bubble car or its electric scooter companion? PAGE 20 National Magazine

Taxis, Hire Cars, Wedding cars, Limousines

Owners, Drivers, Partners, Operators

Suppliers, Networks, Booking Service Providers

Vehicle cleaning tips for driv AUSTRALIA’S ONLY MAGAZINE FOR THE

Taxi, Hire Car, Limo and On-Demand Transport Industry

4,200

Editor

Toni Peters WhatMrsshould I clean?

You must clean any ‘high touch’ surfaces – those Publisher Trade Promotions Pty Ltd These include: PO Box 2345 Mount Waverley VIC 3149

Advertising enquiries

Mrs Toni Peters P 0400 137 866 E tonipeters@drivea2b.com.au W www.drivea2b.com.au Steering wheel

Door handle and controls Media Pack containing advertisement sizes and(including bo Keys

PRINTED COPIES

costs can be downloaded from our website.

7,000

READERSHIP OF PRINTED COPIES

29,000

CIRCULATION (DIGITAL AND PRINTED)

FREQUENCY 1st week of each month

Deadlines

Artwork bookings by 20th of the month prior to publication date.

Articles, editorials and final artwork creatives by 25th of the month prior to publication date.

Handbrake

Gearstick

Visors

Home delivery subscription

year.

Whenfor one should I clean my vehicle $45 for your copy of DRIVE A2B to be mailed to you

THE AUDIENCE Drivers, Owners, Operators, Providers, Suppliers, Booking Services in the Australian Commercial Passenger Transport Industry.

DISTRIBUTION

All Australian States and Territories.

Members industry associations (TAA, NSW TC, SATC), 13cabs depots, Sanitisation Stations, Industry Suppliers, DRIVE A2B Website, Social Media and Subscribers.

FREE emailsurfaces touched Clean high touch Subscription by passengers after each passenger Scan this QR code or visit www.drivea2b.com.au leaves and before the next trip starts.

Payment options

Direct Deposit to Trade Promotions Pty Ltd BSB 033065 ACCOUNT 312786 REF your name

Views expressed in any article in DRIVE A2B magazine are those of the individual contributor and not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher cannot accept any responsibility for any opinions, information, errors or omissions in this publication. To the extent permitted by law, the publisher will not be liable for any damages including special, exemplary, punitive or consequential damages (including but not limited to economic loss or loss of profit or revenue or loss of opportunity) or indirect loss or damage of any kind arising from the contract, tort or otherwise, even if advised of the possibility of such loss of profits or damage. Advertisements must comply with the relevant provisions of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010. Responsibility for compliance with the Act rests with the person, company or advertising agency submitting the advertisement.

What cleaning products should

Use products containing bleach, alcohol or hydrog peroxide. If these are not available, use a disinfecta

DRIVE A2BTM is wholly owned by Trade Promotions Pty Ltd. © Trade Promotions Pty Ltd 2017. All rights reserved. Copyright of articles and photographs in DRIVE A2BTM remains with the individual contributors and may not be reproduced without permission.

4

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · September 2020

vers

EDITION 38 www.drivea2b.com.au DRIVEA2B

that drivers and/or passengers touch regularly.

es oot)

contact@drivea2b.com.au

N AT I O N A L

10

Window controls

Rear view mirror adjuster

Internal grab handles

d I use?

Payment terminals

8 16

Transport Alliance Australia Report.

Border Travel FAQs.

NSW

Seats

10

Ensuring our Vets commemorated the 75th anniversary of Victory in the Pacific.

12 14

Sanitisation Stations - new locations.

Free COVID-19 Clean-up Kits.

Seatbelts and clips QUEENSLAND

20

e?

gen ant.

@DRIVEA2Ba

18

Ombudsman for Queensland's Personalised Transport industry.

19

Masks to be worn in a taxi, limo and ride share vehicle.

Clean high touch surfaces only VICTORIA touched by the driver at the end 22 Message from Rod Barton MP. of each driver’s shift.

CBD will have 20km/h speed limits.

24

C OV I D - 1 9 I N F O

31

13 31

NSW Sanitisation Stations' locations.

40

Don't risk it. Always follow the health advice.

Vehicle cleaning tips for drivers.

OV E R S E A S 34

Public transport emerges as the top use of IoT in cities.

35

Uber targets all-electric rides by 2030, zero-emission platform by 2040.

From our Editor Around Australia the COVID-19 pandemic is taking its toll on every city, every business, everyone!

governments for our industry's drivers, or more correctly the lack of it, is rather disappointing!

In our industry it has been especially difficult for the drivers and operators of all facets of the commercial passenger transport sector.

Taxi and Hire Car drivers have been on standby ever since COVID-19 hit Australia.

Australia's Taxis and Hire Cars were, and still are, a very safe, reliable, and hygienic way to transport passengers in and around cities and towns.

Many of Australia's State's borders have been closed to through traffic and our international borders are closed to tourism.

Zoom, Teams and Webex meetings have replaced face-to-face in person business meetings and become the norm.

Without the public travelling around there is little need for taxis, hire cars, limos or ride share vehicles.

In addition, the financial assistance from

6

Without a doubt, Taxi and Hire Car drivers are very deserving of financial assistance – yet they have been offered very little in the way of financial assistance and they are not eligible for Jobkeeper (as they are not employees).

Many drivers have been living on practically nothing since March 2020.

Why were these people, who are a vitally important part of the Commercial Passenger

DRIVE A2B magazine ¡ www.drivea2b.com.au ¡ September 2020

Non-contact Greetings Transport industry, forgotten? Why were they not offered any financial assistance?

To add salt into the already gaping wound, the Victorian Essential Services Commission (ESC) handed down its report on the Victorian Fare Review for Unbooked CPVs, earlier this month. This report states that expenses of the rank and hail (taxi) operator have only increased minimally over the past few years. This apparently establishes that there is ultimately no need to increase the maximum unbooked taxi fares in Victoria.

What other industry in Australia does not receive an annual increase at least based on the CPI? The taxi drivers are on a wage less than the minimum wage applicable to any employee over 18 years old - but the ESC decides, in their wisdom, to state they don't deserve a wage increase.

And with the purchase of necessary Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) and extra fine-detail cleaning of their vehicles after each trip, surely their costs have increased not decreased!

Yet the ESC states in their report "Leaving maximum fares unchanged is considered the most appropriate approach given the current and ongoing uncertainty. Increasing maximum fares is not the solution to improving financial viability at this time and it would not be in the long term interests of consumers and unbooked taxi providers".

I wonder what the ESC thinks will actually improve the financial viability of the unbooked Victorian CPV industry?

Until next month, stay safe and stay well.

Mrs Toni Peters

DRIVE A2B Editor

DRIVE A2B magazine ¡ www.drivea2b.com.au ¡ September 2020

7

YOUR NATIONAL ASSOCIATION

Looking after the interests of those

The $22m CPV Industry Assistance Package is a very welcomed offer of financial relief to the Operators and Booking Service Providers.

•

Outdoor exercise permitted for 2 hours per day

•

There are 2 parts of this package that have been actioned:

Public outdoor gatherings of two people or a household for up to two hours

•

Playgrounds have reopened

1.

the alterations to the MPTP scheme (which is automatically happening) and

•

Single "social bubbles" - where 1 visitor is allowed if living alone or a single parent.

2.

the refund of the $1 trip levy paid. The entity who paid the levy simply needs to log into their State Revenue Office portal and select for it to be refunded.

The CPV industry operators and drivers need all the financial assistance they can possibly receive.

We have written to Victorian Minister for Public Transport, Mr Ben Carroll, and asked him what he is waiting for.

in the Australian commercial passenger transport sector.

We are disappointed with the Victorian government that the $250 BSP fee assistance has not yet been provided and neither has the sanitsation grants.

Also, as at the time of writing, no eligibility criteria has been circulated for BSPs in regional towns to register for a share in the $1m allocated government assistance.

With lockdown in metro Melbourne lasting for quite a few more weeks, there won't be many people travelling around and therefore not much work for taxi and hire car drivers.

In a nutshell, the Melbourne metropolitan lockdown looks like this:•

8

Curfew from 9pm to 5am

ESC update The Essential Services Commission (ESC) is required to review and set the maximum fares that commercial passenger vehicles in metro or urban and large regional zones can charge for UNBOOKED trips every two years.

On 8 September 2020, it announced its decision to keep maximum fares unchanged and ‘time and distance’ tariffs remain optional.

In its report the ESC stated, "Given the current and uncertain future impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the commercial passenger vehicle industry, keeping maximum fares unchanged will provide some level of stability for consumers and unbooked taxi service providers."

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · September 2020

The maximum fares apply to unbooked trips that begin in the metro or urban and large regional zones which cover most of metropolitan Melbourne, Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo, Frankston, Dandenong and the Mornington Peninsula.

The ESC stated in the report that by not changing the fares it is being kind to BSPs as they will not be required to update meters and stickers during these challenging times.

What does this all mean? Rank and hail (unbooked) trip fares are limited to the maximum fare specified by the ESC, but booked trips are free to set their own prices.

Doesn't seem quite fair, does it?

WAV report The CPVV recently released a report on "A proposed framework for training and assessing drivers of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles".

This report recommends that: 1.

all drivers should be required

Online Australian Training Courses offered by

to complete regular disability and inclusion awareness training.

2.

W endorsed (drivers of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles) should be required to refresh their training regularly.

3.

CPVV should appoint providers to develop a training and assessment package for obtaining and retaining a W endorsement.

Many other Australian states already have mandatory training requirements for commercial passenger vehicle drivers and special training for wheelchair vehicle drivers.

What we find incredible is that the CPVV is only just waking up to the fact that these recommendations are needed!

Why not learn from another state's hard work in implementing this training and use its training modules. In doing so, time and money would definitely be saved.

Implementing this mandatory driver training now would give the

Victorian drivers the opportunity to undertake this training whilst they have downtime during the COVID-19 lockdown. It would in fact, give the drivers something to do to keep their accreditation up-to-date, and even make them feel useful by bettering their skills.

Queensland Package Applications for the Taxi and Limo Industry Assistance Scheme were due on September 4, but at that date the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads issued an extension for a further week until September 11.

You have to wonder what was so difficult in filling out 6 pages of information so that you could claim your entitlement. Or was it just many people had not been informed that they could apply for this funding?

Take care and stay safe.

Toni Peters Director, Transport Alliance Australia

Limousine, Taxi, Hire Car, Ride Share

Limousine, Taxi, Hire Car, Ride Share

Anti-Discrimination & Sexual Harassment Online Training Course

Disability Awareness Online Training Course

24 Lessons

|

$49.00

24 Lessons

|

$49.00

drvrtraining.com

DRIVE A2B magazine ¡ www.drivea2b.com.au ¡ September 2020

9

NEW SOUTH WALES TAXI COUNCIL NEWS

NSW News

Ensuring our Vets commemorated the 75th Anniversary of Victory in the Pacific

10

Manly Cabs, a member network of the NSW Taxi Council - had the honour and privilege of transporting our respected Veterans for the commemoration of the 75th anniversary of Victory in the Pacific on 15 August 2020. Manly Cabs transported three respected Veterans who served in World War II (WWII) along with their guests in three separate Taxis from Gallipoli House to The Sydney Cenotaph located on Pitt Street at Martin Place.

Considering the critical times we are in caused by COVID-19, and the vulnerability of our senior citizens to the virus, the utmost safety, care and diligence was practiced by Manly Cabs in all the three Taxis being utilised to transport the respected Veterans. All of the Taxis were washed and sanitised prior to picking up the veterans. All Taxi drivers wore masks and had masks for passengers if they chose to wear them. All cars were equipped with hand sanitisers and wipes.

DRIVE A2B magazine ¡ www.drivea2b.com.au ¡ September 2020

Ashwin Sharma – Acting CEO, Manly Cabs on this auspicious occasion commented on the significance of transporting the respected Veterans and said “It is an absolute honour and privilege to transport our World War II veterans”.

“Manly Cabs has transported Veterans for over 60 years for ANZAC day. We are always available to assist whenever requested to volunteer our services as Veterans are a crucial part of our society. They also provide valuable income to our industry and by assisting them for special occasions like the VP day is only a small token in thanking them for the services they have provided to our country,” added Mr Sharma.

“Importantly it signifies the return of life back to normal for everyone who was affected during the war. I felt very humbled to have been asked to participate in the commemoration ceremony,” said Mr Van Emden.

Furthermore, Mr Van Emden also shared his views on the significance of the event and expressed, “It was very important because it is a time that I will never forget. I joined the Air Force as an instrument technician in 1940 and served for 5 and a half years until the end of the war.”

On being asked about his experience of travelling in a Taxi to the ceremony, he added, “It is greatly appreciated, and I am thankful to Manly Cabs for providing the service”.

Mr Jack Van Emden, a Veteran who served in World War II and was invited for the commemoration ceremony expressed his views on the occasion and said, “It's a celebration to signify the end of WWII after 75 years”.

“It is also a special time to remember the mateship we made and lost during the war. Some of those I served with, I managed to keep in touch with, but over the years have lost touch with many as they came from all over Australia.”

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · September 2020

11

NEW SOUTH WALES

SANITISATION STATIONS GM Cabs Free Sanitisation Station at Sydney Airport GM Cabs - a member network of the NSW Taxi Council has taken it upon themselves to open their own privately funded Sanitisation Station at the Sydney Domestic Airport Taxi Holding Bay. The aim of opening up its own Sanitisation Station is to ensure that passengers coming out of the Sydney Domestic Airport feel confident that they are hopping into a freshly sanitised Taxi, and the passengers and drivers travel safely each and every time.

George Mikhael, Chairman of GM Cabs said, "Safety of drivers and passengers is most important to GM Cabs during these difficult times. The passengers coming out of the airport will feel much safer in Taxis and the drivers will go back to their families with peace of mind at the end of their shifts".

"We run from early morning to late afternoon, every day of the week for all the Taxis. It is of utmost importance that we all work together to ensure the safety of passengers and drivers," George added.

Michael Mikhael, General Manager of GM Cabs further added, “We have strict processes and protocols in place here and we also have Personal

12

Protective Equipment (PPE) at the Sanitisation Station for all our cleaners".

"The advantage is that Taxi drivers can come in before joining the queue at the Domestic Airport Taxi Holding Bay and get their Taxis freshly cleaned and sanitised without losing any time."

"It takes around three to four minutes for a standard Taxi vehicle and six to seven minutes for a larger vehicle like a Maxi to be sanitised," said Michael.

The NSW Government has advised recently to avoid non-essential travel via public transport as we fight through this critical second wave of the pandemic.

Taxis are an essential mode of transport for the people across NSW and sanitisation of these vehicles is of utmost importance to stop the spread of COVID-19.

The NSW Taxi Council has been working together with its member networks in Sydney as well as regional NSW to ensure driver and passenger safety in Taxis.

Martin Rogers, CEO NSW Taxi Council, said, "It’s a great initiative.

We would like to thank GM Cabs for

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · September 2020

opening up this Sanitisation Station for all Taxis at the Domestic Airport, thus ensuring COVID-19 safe Taxis for passengers.”

"Taxis are essential and open for business in NSW. We are continually working together with our member networks for having COVID-Safe policies and procedures in place for Taxis to ensure health and well-being of passengers and drivers."

"We want to ensure that our drivers remain safe and healthy during this pandemic. We want people to feel safe, secure and comfortable in choosing Taxis as a form of transport."

NSW SANITISATION STATION LOCATIONS OPEN TIMES LOCATION

MON-FRI

SATURDAY

FUNDED BY

7am – 7pm

7am – 7pm

NSW government

7am – 7pm

7am – 7pm

NSW government

7am - 7pm

7am - 7pm

NSW government

7am – 7pm

7am – 4pm

NSW government

7am – 7pm

7am – 7pm

NSW government

7am – 7pm

7am – 7pm

GM Cabs

7am-7pm

8am-5pm

NSW government

7am – 7pm

8am – 5pm

NSW government

Albury Railway Place

Alexandria 9-13 O’Riordan Street

Central Coast 7 Merinee Road, West Gosford

Dubbo 33 White Street

Leumeah Unit 7, No. 4 Grange Road

Mascot Sydney Domestic Airport Taxi Holding Bay

Newcastle 5/8 Channel Road, Mayfield West

"Taxis help healthy people stay healthy," Mr Rogers added.

Prestons

GM Cabs has been a force in the NSW Taxi industry for over 20 years. It has always driven innovation and are continually striving to create a better industry.

28-30 Burrows Road

Weld Street

St Peters 9am - 4pm

Zevra Taxis

Tamworth 21 Hume Street

7am – 7pm

8am – 4pm

NSW government

7:35am 5:45pm

7:15am 5:45pm

NSW government

Tweed Heads Tweed City Shopping Centre bus stop

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · September 2020

13

NEW SOUTH WALES

FREE COVID-19 Clean-up Kits The NSW Government has developed a clean-up kit for Point to Point drivers to carry in their vehicles. The new "clean up kits" are now available for Taxis and other Point to Point transport service providers to help keep drivers and passengers safe from germs.

Each "clean up kit" will have gloves, saline eye wash, antiseptic swabs, soap and a first aid hand towel stored in re-sealable plastic bag to make it easy for drivers to use. These "clean up kits" could be used in the event of a passenger spreading droplets, such as coughing or sneezing, so the drivers can clean themselves or their vehicle surfaces to potentially reduce the spread of infection.

All Taxis and Point to Point vehicles in NSW will be eligible for one COVID-19 "clean up kit", free of charge. They are available at all the government funded sanitisation stations across NSW and service providers could also order these "clean up kits" from the Point to Point Transport Commissioner Industry Portal.

NSW Industry Stats NSW Passenger Transport (PT) Driver Licences 140,000

119,847

120,000 100,000 80,000

123,975

124,823

Number of available NSW Taxi Plates Registered taxi plates

125,420

6,000

99,403

5,000

77,838

4,000

60,000

3,000

40,000

2,000

20,000

1,000

0 Jan-18

14

Plates on hold

7,000

Jan-19

Jan-20

Jun-20

Jul-20

Aug-20

-

Jan-18

Jan-19

Jan-20

DRIVE A2B magazine ¡ www.drivea2b.com.au ¡ September 2020

Jun-20

Jul-20

Aug-20

Our New Website has launched!

Featuring relevant COVID-19 information for the industry and NEW Ad Directory, Classifieds and Drivers Wanted pages.

CLICK HERE TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE

Now, advertisers get more value for their money, being advertised on our website and via Facebook & Instagram at no extra cost:

For any advertising enquiries, email contact@drivea2b.com.au or SMS/call 0400 137 866.

FAQs

TAXI, LIMO, HIRE CAR & RIDE SHARE

Border Travel VIC-NSW

NSW-QLD

VIC-SA

NT/WA-SA

Q: Can I cross the NSW border to provide a taxi service?

Q: Can I provide taxi services across the NSW-QLD border?

Q: Can I cross the SA border to provide a taxi service?

Q: As a taxi driver, an essential traveller, can I enter SA from NT or WA?

Victorians in the border region are allowed entry to NSW for extremely limited purposes. You can check service.nsw.gov.au to determine if your address falls within the border region.

All QLD taxi drivers will require an F PASS (pass for transport workers not required to quarantine) to cross from NSW to QLD. They will not be required to quarantine in QLD, except if they have –

You must follow the requirements in the SA Emergency Management Direction and wear a face covering, as well as quarantine in SA when you are not providing CPV services.

Border region residents will only be able to cross into the other side of the VIC-NSW border zone to go to work or attend an education institution if they can’t work or learn from home or to obtain medical care, supplies or health services.

All border zone residents must have a permit issued by Service NSW to cross the border. You can apply for a permit online here: www.service.nsw.gov.au.

Drivers must self-isolate when you are not providing CPV services.

Taxi passengers will also need a permit or be authorised to enter NSW under the Public Health Amendment Order 2020. Drivers are not expected to ensure their passengers are permitted to enter NSW. However, drivers should be aware that they may be stopped at the border if your passenger doesn’t have a permit.

For more information on the NSW border restrictions see: NSW government website.

Q: Can I use the sanitisation station in Albury if I cross into NSW? Yes, the sanitisation station at Railway Place, Albury, is open to Victorian CPVs. This is a complimentary service entitling you to one sanitisation per vehicle, per day.

- travelled to / through a declared COVID-19 hotspot before entering QLD; - had close contact with a person who is a confirmed case of COVID-19; - symptoms consistent with COVID-19; or - been tested for COVID-19 and are awaiting their results.

QLD taxi drivers should avoid transporting passengers to destinations in NSW beyond the designated border zone, as it will result in them being required to quarantine on return to QLD. All taxi passengers crossing from NSW to QLD will require an – - X PASS (pass for border zone residents); or - Q PASS (pass for people directed to quarantine), and they must be taken directly to their allocated quarantine location (this may result in drivers being required to quarantine after entry to QLD).

Taxi drivers cannot transport passengers from NSW to QLD who have a G PASS (general pass) or S PASS (pass for people who’ve been to hotspots not required to quarantine) or who have NO PASS. There are no restrictions on QLD taxi drivers and their passengers crossing from QLD to NSW (except upon their return to QLD).

If requested by an SA authorised officer, you must also be able to produce evidence that you have undertaken COVID-19 test in the previous 7 days.

You will need to complete the cross border travel registration at least three days before travelling into SA. You will need a letter from your employer or other evidence to demonstrate you are an essential traveller.

Your passengers will need to be essential travellers or essential travellers (restricted) to enter SA. Drivers are not expected to ensure their passengers are permitted to enter SA. However, you should be aware that you may be stopped at the border if your passengers cannot demonstrate they are allowed to enter SA.

NT-QLD Q: Can I enter QLD from NT? As NT is not declared a COVID-19 hotspot, you can still drive over the border into QLD. You will be required to apply for a Queensland Border Declaration Pass.

Q: Can I enter NT from QLD? As QLD is not declared a COVID-19 hotspot, you can still drive over the border into NT. You will be required to complete a NT Border Entry Application.

Yes, there are no restrictions on travellers who have completed cross border registration from low community transmission zones such as NT & WA, provided that they have not been to any other place than the low community transmission zone in the last 14 days.

You must complete a cross border registration form 72 hours prior to arrival.

You need to apply online and provide sufficient evidence in your cross border travel registration form to allow a decision on Essential Traveller status to be made.

Q: Can I enter NT from SA? As SA is not declared a COVID-19 hotspot, you can still drive over the border into NT. You will be required to complete a NT Border Entry Application.

Q: Can I enter WA from SA? You must apply for a G2G Pass.

You will need to show evidence of having received a negative COVID-19 test result in the last 5 days. If you have not been tested in the last 7 days, you will be directed at the WA border to undertake a COVID-19 test.

MEMBERSHIP IS ONLY $22 PER YEAR

We all know just how important the transport industry is in our daily lives – especially for the young, old and vulnerable who rely on it, and for those who work in the networks.

It is clear there is still much to be done to ensure the industry has a more positive, efficient and sustainable environment.

Transport Matters Party’s Leader Rod Barton MP, Executive Board, staff and volunteers have been active during the last 18 months doing just that – improving the industry.

In fact, the latest success we’ve seen is the COVID-19 financial support package for the CPV industry, thanks to Mr. Barton’s recommendations on the panel being approved.

Thank you to everyone who has supported Transport Matters Party in the past – we would not be where we are without you.

To retain our registration as a political party with the Victorian Electoral Commission we are required to demonstrate an ongoing member base.

We ask that you please consider renewing or joining today for a fee of only $22 per year.2020 DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · September www.transportmatters.org.au/join

Be part of a movement that matters....

17

GOVERNMENT NEWS

Queensland News

Ombudsman for Queensland's Personalised Transport industry

18

The Queensland Government is going to review the proposed powers of Queensland’s first Personalised Transport Ombudsman (PTO).

“Now is not the time to focus on more regulation and that’s why, since April, we’ve announced two industry support packages.”

The appointment of Queensland’s first PTO was expected in March 2020, however the impacts of COVID-19 has delayed the process until 2021.

“That includes $23 million specifically for the taxi and limousine industry that provided one-off payments of $3,500 per vehicle to taxi and limousine operators and one-off payments of $1,000 per licence to taxi and limousine licence holders.”

The rationale behind this is to hopefully allow sufficient time for the industry to focus on recovery.

Transport and Main Roads Minister, Mark Bailey said, “By May 2020, over 1000 taxis and limousine licence holders had de-registered their vehicles to reduce costs during the COVID-19 emergency”.

“There has been some re-registration of vehicles, but around 700 taxi and limousine licence holders remain without an operational vehicle at the end of last month.”

“In major markets like Brisbane, the industry has advised decreases of up to 90% in rank and hail business and about 70% [decrease] of booked trips in Brisbane.”

“We’re seeing the green shoots of recovery in industries across Queensland but there’s no doubt taxi, rideshare and limousine operators will continue to feel the impacts of COVID-19 for some time.”

The new Ombudsman role is intended to complement the work of other agencies at both a State and Federal level.

“We know the PTO needs to be independent and empowered to investigate and mediate individual complaints and we will look at what additional powers it might need in the post-COVID world", said Mr Bailey.

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · September 2020

When it's raining cats and dogs Masks to be worn in a taxi, limo and ride share vehicle Masks are being increasingly adopted around the world as a key element in the fight against COVID-19 and Queensland has joined in.

Queensland's Chief Medical Officer, Dr Young, has urged all Queenslanders to wear masks in public if they are unable to socially distance or are in a confined space.

stay dry as a bone with one of these...

Umbrellas are so boring! These Animal Umbrellas from Pikkii Designs were created to make staying dry in the rain fun. These premium large-canopy umbrellas with all over print and protruding ears feature a high-grip soft-touch curved handle for maximum grip, and an automatic open button for instant dryness!

"Over the last few days I've been saying to people this is the time to get out those ... surgical masks that you can now buy anywhere," she said.

"Or if you've made a mask with three layers of thickness, they are effective as well — not quite as effective, but they're pretty good."

Dr Young said that masks should be worn by taxi, hire car and limo drivers and their passengers.

In fact if you are travelling with someone not from your household, then all travellers should wear a mask.

And to make your suitcase less boring, try one of these Animal Luggage Covers from Pikkii Design.

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · September 2020

19

Brothers Oliver and Merlin Ouboter (pictured) and father Wim Ouboter, are the Swiss family behind the famous Micro Kickscooter and now the Microlino and Microletta.

microlino THE IDEAL MIX BETWEEN MOTORBIKE AND CAR Unlike many small car-like EVs, the Microlino offers “real” car features like four wheels, seat belts and an entry door, though there’s only one door, and it happens to do double-duty as the front of the vehicle as well.

The Microlino is powered by an 11kW motor with 100Nm of torque that can propel the little EV up to 90 km/h. It features two different battery options (8 or 14.4 kWh) that can provide either 125 or 200 km of range.

20

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · September 2020

Top Speed 90 km/h Range 200kms Charging 4 hours

microletta WHY HAVE TWO WHEELS WHEN YOU CAN HAVE THREE? The cute little Microletta electric scooter features two tilting wheels in the front for a more stable ride. That design also means that riders in Europe won’t need a motorcycle license to operate the Microletta, and can instead ride it with just a standard driver licence.

Top Speed 80 km/h Range 100kms Charging 4 hours

BETTER URBAN

lifestyle On average, a car is occupied by only 1.2 people and driven just 35km per day. This means that normal cars are too big for 95% of their usage.

Sounds stupid, right? The Microlino is designed to be ideal for daily use, whether it is commuting to work, visiting friends or going shopping.

Space for 2 adults and 3 cases of beer.

Can be charged on a house-plug in just 4 hours.

Easy parking - Crosspark and get out directly on the sidewalk.

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · September 2020

21

UPDATE FROM ROD BARTON MP

What's Rod been working on this month?

Victoria News

Earlier this month the Andrews Government presented a Bill that extended the State of Emergency, by six months.

By extending the State of Emergency it provides enforcement powers for compulsory face coverings, requirement of workplaces to have a COVIDSafe Plan and mandatory isolation for people who have tested positive. All of which is important in helping to slow the spread of the virus.

Despite this, the extension could possibly place unbearable stress and uncertainty on the Victorian people as “the prospect of eternity – Groundhog Day – rinse and repeat with the added concern of utter financial ruin” could very well become a reality.

What is clear is that this government lacks effective communication with Victorians.

The most effective and justified way to control this virus is to ensure that decisions are democratically made and agreed upon by this parliament.

We need to take the utmost care and consideration to not only save lives but to save livelihoods.

I do appreciate the intent behind this

22

Bill, BUT I reject the timeframe of the extension to the State of Emergency, and I absolutely reject the way this Bill is drafted to deliver unfettered powers to the government without adequate checks and balances.

Nonetheless it is time we recognise that economic destruction is as equally damaging, both physically and mentally, to the health of Victorians.

It is important that everyone has something to look forward to; otherwise the future is bleak and hopefully the roadmap that Premier Andrews delivered on 6 September, goes some way to help with seeing a path forward.

Homelessness Homelessness affects a wide range of individuals from an array of circumstances, such as fleeing domestic violence or job loss, and encompasses those in inadequate or unstable housing as well as those sleeping rough.

Sadly, many Victorians often find themselves only one or two pay cheques away from homelessness.

What is shocking is that during the

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · September 2020

Rod Barton MLC Leader, Transport Matters Party

public hearings for the inquiry into homelessness in Victoria it was advised that for every 1 per cent increase in unemployment there is a 1 per cent increase in homelessness.

This is devastating, especially in a pandemic where thousands of Victorians are losing their jobs.

Unstable and insufficient housing means that these people have no option but to move from place to place. As a community we have the ability to secure safe and stable housing for these people to help them get back on their feet and in contact with these services.

Living in hotels is not a long-term solution, but at least these people are somewhere safe, warm and clean for now.

I have asked the Minister for Housing what the government’s plan is for accommodating the sudden increase in those experiencing homelessness.

Rural Public Transport It is vital that we address the transport disadvantage experienced throughout regional and rural

Victoria. I believe that regional Victoria deserves to be better connected and have more frequent and reliable public transport networks. To do this, we must create a solution that can be costeffective, flexible and place-based to best meet the needs of local communities. The school bus could be this solution.

The regional Victorian School Bus Program consists of 1450 contracted school buses. When these buses are not driving 65,000 or so students to school, they often sit idle. Moreover, on many buses, there also exist spare seats that could be used to help the wider public get from rural areas to larger towns and regional centres. The School Bus Program is a state-funded resource that is largely under-utilised. The irony is that these spare assets exist alongside severe transport disadvantage.

With a lack of alternative transport options, there is a dependency on cars to get around. This disadvantages youths who are dependent on lifts, low-income earners who struggle with the financial burden of running a car and

senior citizens who require flexible transport arrangements.

The School Bus Program could alleviate this disadvantage by allowing members of the wider public to access spare seats on the bus and by using school buses throughout the day to provide bus services to shopping precincts, healthcare centres, educational institutions and train stations.

Improving the transport options in rural and regional Victoria could improve education and employment opportunities for youths, create more connected communities, mitigate transport disadvantage and create a more equitable society.

We need to listen to regional communities, understand their priorities and create innovative transport solutions that can be adapted to them.

Until next month, stay safe and stay well.

DRIVE A2B magazine ¡ www.drivea2b.com.au ¡ September 2020

Rod Barton MP Leader, Transport Matters Party

23

VICTORIA NEWS

Lower speed limits to improve pedestrian safety in Melbourne CBD

By Nicola Dowse

Melbourne's "little" streets will have their speed limits lowered from 40km to 20km per hour, in a move to make them more pedestrian friendly.

Melbourne City Council has announced the speed limits will be lowered in Flinders Lane, Little Collins Street, Little Bourke Street and Little Lonsdale Street in the coming weeks, to allow pedestrians to safely socially distance as more people return to the CBD.

24

pedestrians, and use art and activities to bring vitality back to our streets and laneways. This will help local businesses operate while accommodating [safety] measures."

In the affected streets, shared zone icons will be painted on the roads featuring figures doing activities like shopping and working, and drivers will still be able to access these streets for deliveries and essential travel.

Lord Mayor Sally Capp said, "Many of our footpaths are less than two metres wide, so there’s not enough space for people to pass each other safely while maintaining physical distance. The changes will ease footpath congestion as people safely return to the city."

While many Melburnians can easily travel the city by foot or public transport, keep in mind some people rely on car travel due to disability.

"This is the first step in a broader program of works to create more space for shoppers, diners and

Most drivers currently take the 'little' streets at between 20km and 30km per hour.

About 46 pedestrians are injured every year in Melbourne's CBD – the highest rate of anywhere in Victoria.

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · September 2020

LEGAL UPDATE

Yours, mine and ours inheritances and family law

When a relationship breaks down, it is common for disputes to arise over the ‘ownership’ of an inheritance received by one of the parties.

The biggest question is whether an inheritance received by one party forms part of the pool of assets for distribution between both.

This article provides guidance on when an inheritance might be available for distribution between the parties, the affect the inheritance will have on proportioning the property settlement, and the circumstances when an inheritance may be protected.

How is a property settlement determined?

When assessing the impact of an inheritance, it is helpful to understand the process used to reach a property settlement in family law matters. This includes: Step 1 – Identifying all assets, liabilities and financial resources of the parties – assets include those held jointly between the parties, jointly with another party, or separately.

Step 2 – Identifying the financial and non-financial contributions made by each party – financial contributions include earnings and assets brought into the relationship

26

(lump sums, property or an inheritance) and non-financial contributions include caring for family, renovating a home, carrying out domestic duties and managing finances.

Step 3 – Assessing additional factors such as each parties’ future needs – their respective earning capacities, state of health, physical and mental capacity and the needs of primary carers to provide a suitable home for children.

Step 4 – In all the circumstances, determining a settlement that is ‘just and equitable’.

The starting point is generally an equal distribution of assets, however the Court’s powers are discretionary in reaching a ‘just

and equitable’ outcome and no two cases are alike.

How is an inheritance treated in family law proceedings?

The way in which an inheritance is treated in a property settlement depends upon: •

when the inheritance is received;

•

the length of the relationship;

•

the amount of the inheritance compared to the overall asset pool; and

•

the unique circumstances of the parties.

The timing of receiving an

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · September 2020

inheritance is important in determining whether it forms part of the asset pool. The length of the relationship and the parties’ circumstances will influence how the inheritance will be treated.

An inheritance received before or during the relationship forms part of the asset pool. This however does not mean that its value will be equally proportioned between the parties and various factors will be relevant.

The inheritance is considered a financial contribution by the person receiving it, who may be found to have made a greater contribution to the overall assets.

This depends however on when the inheritance was received, its value, what it was used for, and the other parties’ financial contributions.

For example, the significance of an inheritance will usually diminish over the course of a long marriage with less effect on the ultimate division of its value between the parties. For instance, after a 20 to 30 year marriage the value of the inheritance may be reduced by other contributions made by the parties and merely form part of

the matrix of family finances to be brought into the pool of assets for distribution.

Alternatively, if the relationship is not so long and provided the party receiving the inheritance used it for the benefit of the parties, then the beneficiary of the inheritance may have a greater entitlement to it.

An inheritance received close to the time of separation, or afterwards is generally precluded from the asset pool and not available for distribution. Accordingly, it may more readily be retained by the beneficiary.

The inheritance however may be considered a financial resource of the party receiving it which is potentially available to meet the needs of the other party, after considering the parties’ future needs set out in step 3 above. In such a case, and after considering various other factors, a needy party may obtain a greater division of the net asset pool. This outcome is more likely where the available assets are minimal and it would be ‘just and equitable’ to make the distribution.

Conclusion Inheritances received before or during a relationship must be considered part of the parties’ pool of assets when dividing property post-separation. The proportioning of the value of the inheritance is influenced by various matters, and particularly by the length of the relationship.

An inheritance received postseparation is not available as property for distribution however will be considered a financial resource and, in some circumstances, result in a division of property that favours the party in most need.

Each case is determined on its merits and the Court’s power is discretionary in achieving a ‘just and equitable’ settlement that takes account of all relevant factors.

If you would like to know how an inheritance affects your property settlement, or if you or someone you know wants more information or needs help or advice, please contact us on 03 8346 4900 or email amsr@amslaw.com.au

P: (03) 8346 4900

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · September 2020

27

Flying taxi trial set to expand

by Sarah Wray

Dubai is turning its attention to the finer details of making flying taxis a reality.

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Dubai Air Navigation Services (DANS) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to exchange expertise on autonomous air vehicles.

They will collaborate on areas such as legislation; testing programmes; identification of vehicle air routes and take-off and landing sites; and safety and security relating to urban air mobility.

Ahmed Hashim Behrouzian, Executive Director of the Public Transport Foundation and Head of the RTA’s self-driving air vehicle project team, said: “The MoU is part of our measures promoting Dubai’s smart self-driving strategy, which aims to convert 25 percent of all travel in Dubai into self-driving flights through various means of transport by 2030.”

Dubai is expected to be the launch pad for commercial air taxis, with services projected to begin by 2022.

It has carried out advanced tests with autonomous aerial vehicle companies such as Volocopter and EHang.

Integrating UAM EHang also recently announced it is working with the City of Linz, aerospace group FACC and other local partners on an Urban Air Mobility (UAM) pilot project.

Following the identification of a suitable test route running over uninhabited areas, infrastructure construction is planned for 2021 and trial flights will take place “in the near future,” EHang said.

The pilot project will study the practicality of implementation in urban areas, acceptance by citizens and environmental impact.

Huazhi Hu, EHang Founder, Chairman and CEO, commented: “We will implement the whole value chain that is necessary for UAM operations, as well as demonstrate passenger experience journeys.

Bookings systems, boarding processes and aftermarket service questions will play a role.”

Taking off According to a December report from research and consulting firm Frost & Sullivan, around 50 cities worldwide are evaluating the viability of UAM, driven mainly

Linz in Austria will become an Urban Air Mobility (UAM) pilot city, while Dubai is turning its attention to the finer details of making flying taxis a reality.

by congestion and overburdened road infrastructure. The sector is expected to be initially dominated by hybrid, piloted vehicles, with electric air taxis making their debut after 2025, followed by autonomous aerial vehicles from 2030.

While COVID-19 may delay some developments in the short-term, management consultancy Roland Berger recently concluded it will have little long-term impact on the growth of the UAM market. It expects 160,000 passenger drones to be in operation by 2050.

a b m E ssy Cafe OPEN FOR YOUR TAKE AWAY ORDERS

WE’re open WE NEVER CL

OSE

T BURGERS IN TOWN S E B E H T FOR 547 Spencer Street S U T I IV S West Melbourne

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · September 2020

29

Green Dots on Highways Do you know what the reflective green dots on sign posts along some highways in Queensland and New South Wales represent?

COVID-19 WorkCover claims in Victoria Attorney-General Jill Hennessy said there had been 297 WorkCover claims made in Victoria during the lockdown.

“It's interesting to note that a bit under half of those are not people who have tested positive for corona[virus], but it has related to things like mental health and wellbeing, other issues associated with working in this environment as well,” she said.

These green reflectors will help you find a safe place to pull over.

3 green reflectors indicate there is a safe place to pull over in 500 metres, 2 dots indicate a place 250 metres ahead and 1 dot just before the area. The areas are flat and fairly levelled and can be used to pull over when traffic is piling up behind you, or if you just need a break from driving.

Although the concept was designed for heavy transport - you don’t need to be a truck driver or towing a caravan to use the space indicated by the dots; any motorist can pull up in the safe zone. There have been calls for green reflective dots on sign posts to be utilised nationwide.

“Each and every single claim has been accepted."

Long ago tradesmen sold things in large cloth bags. One day a woman asked for a pig. The tradesman held up a cloth bag with something moving inside it. He said it was a live pig. The woman asked to see it. When the dishonest tradesman opened the bag, out jumped a cat -- not a pig.

Let the cat out of the bag!

Meaning: To reveal a secret by surprise or accident

30

The tradesman’s secret was out. He was trying to trick her. And now everybody knew it - the cat was out of the bag!

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · September 2020

Reduce the risk

Vehicle cleaning tips for drivers What should I clean?

You must clean any ‘high touch’ surfaces – those that drivers and/or passengers touch regularly.

These include:

Steering wheel and controls

Keys

Door handles (including boot)

Window controls

Rear view mirror adjuster

Payment terminals

Handbrake

Gearstick

Visors

Internal grab handles

Seats

Seatbelts and clips

When should I clean my vehicle?

Clean high touch surfaces touched by passengers after each passenger leaves and before the next trip starts.

Clean high touch surfaces only touched by the driver at the end of each driver’s shift.

What cleaning products should I use?

Use products containing bleach, alcohol or hydrogen peroxide. If these are not available, use a disinfectant.

Play your part in reducing the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19) by keeping your vehicle clean.

For guidance on how to clean frequently touched surfaces, visit https://bit.ly/2wh9Ibl or see our FAQs at https://bit.ly/3dMtGv8 CPVV_S164_7670_03/20_V1

WANT WORK? WANT A DRIVER? DRIVER JOBS CANBERRA CANBERRA ELITE TAXIS Due to increased demand Canberra Elite Taxis is seeking more drivers for Canberra’s biggest and most experienced taxi fleet.

Day, night and weekend shifts available. If you don’t already have a valid ACT “T” condition on your licence we can help you through the process quickly and efficiently. For more information please email feedback@aerialcg.com or call our Office on (02) 6126 1500.

OWN YOUR OWN BUSINESS AS A TAXI OPERATOR Are you a taxi driver looking to become your own boss and work for yourself? If you are, talk to us about leasing a taxi plate and working with Canberra’s biggest taxi fleet. We will help you through the process of becoming an accredited taxi operator and starting out in your own business. Contact fleet@aerialcg. com or call our Office (02) 6126 1500.

NORTHERN TERRITORY TAXI/MINIBUS DRIVER - PALMERSTON CITY

Immediate vacancy is available for a Minibus Taxi Driver.

Daytime/weekends shifts available. NT Driver's Licence with 'H' endorsement is enough to start the job. If not, we can help you get the 'H' endorsement. Great income flexible work hours. Please contact Gihan 0469 828 307.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA CROWN CABS Drivers wanted full time or part time in Morley and Perth.

Contact Tuna Guclu on 0419 484 666.

PERTH DRIVER - BLACK & WHITE CABS Day Shifts (5-7 days). Please call Georgina on (08) 9230 0400.

MANDURAH TAXIS DRIVERS All shifts available, especially nights, weekends and wheelchair bus drivers. Flexible hours - work to suit your lifestyle. Good income and all training provided free.

Call (08) 9581 8999.

32

NEW SOUTH WALES DRIVERS WANTED - WOLLONGONG LOOKING FOR A CAREER CHANGE? This could be an opportunity for you to join the team at the Illawarra Taxi Network. Become your own boss, working flexible hours, full time, part time or casual. Full training and assistance with your application is available if necessary. Must have a full NSW Driver's Licence for 12 months. Call (02) 4254 2120 Email john.megas@ illawarrataxinetwork.com.au for more details.

TAXI DRIVERS - MAITLAND Weekends and week days and nights. Must have held black licence for at least 12 months and have a good driving record.

FULL TIME NIGHT SHIFTS - BANKSTOWN 13cabs network. Toyota Camry hybrid. Please call or text 0421 771 288

TAXI DRIVER - WILEY PARK

13cabs Toyota Camry Hybrid. Taxi has full comprehensive insurance, leather seats, rubber mats and weather-shield. Very well maintained Taxi.

Change over in Wiley Park, Punchbowl, Lakemba or Belmore. Day/Night/Weekend/Semi/weekly. Full Time, Part Time or Casual. Immediate Start. On Going Opportunity. Reasonable pay in. If you drive for us regularly for 6 months, we service your private car for FREE. Text or Phone to 0418 612 692.

SYDNEY DRIVERS

Day shift $105 and night shift $120. Change over Granville. Email Mazen - manelali1988@hotmail.com.

NEWCASTLE DRIVERS

Monday - Friday night shifts. Pick up from Warners Bay. Please call or text Martin 0413 943 086.

TAXI DRIVER - BALLINA TAXIS Pick your own shifts, on the job training provided for suitable applicants. Email: ballinataxis@bigpond. com - send your resume and contact details. For more information please call 0419 862 290.

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · September 2020

owners, operators & drivers ADVERTISE HERE FREE Send details (word limit=70) of your DRIVER or JOB advertisement to contact@drivea2b.com.au or sms 0400 137 866 and we will print your advert here for 3 months

QUEENSLAND WANTED URGENTLY - MAXI WEEKEND DRIVERS Over the last 6 weeks, we have had very few maxi vehicles out during the Weekend days and this has put a huge strain on the guys who are out there. If you can help out please contact Kel at Suncoast Cabs Management on (07) 5441 8888.

DAY AND NIGHT DRIVERS - BUNDABERG

Must have held an Australian Driver's Licence for 3 years minimum. Must be able to pass a medical test, a 5 year criminal and Licence check. Must be able to acquire an Authorised Licence. Full time/part time Commission - good rates - training provided. Day and night shifts available. Please email your resume at jrider3710@gmail.com or text or call - 0421 761 805.

BRISBANE CROWN CABS

www.crowncabs.com.au

All shifts available - 7 days per week. Please Phone Tuna Guclu - 0419 484 666.

SUNCOAST CAB DRIVERS Covering from Noosa to Caloundra & Hinterland. Main duty is passenger pick up & drop off. Suncoast Cabs service 250+ account clients which may involve delivery of items. Experience is gained on the job. A 3-day training session is mandatory. Call Glenn 0438 517 500.

VICTORIA DRIVERS WANTED - SHEBAH - WIN $50 Are you looking for a part-time job that is flexible, empowering and entertaining every day? Join our movement (literally) and become a Shebah driver today!

All female rideshare company Shebah, will give new drivers who sign up and drive before 31 October $50! Use code DRIVE50 when signing up! www.shebah.com

MELTON DRIVERS REQUIRED Night/Day/Weekend shifts are available. Ring Zafar on 0425 844 884.

SILVER TOP TAXI DRIVERS Has to be over 25 years old. At least 3 years experience.

East Doncaster changeover. Call or SMS Tony on 0413 393 594 or email tonysursock@gmail.com.

CROWN CABS DRIVERS WANTED Shepparton - Ballarat - Mansfield - Sunbury - Wallan Kilmore. Day and night shifts. Phone (03) 9310 5422.

DRIVERS - BAYSIDE TAXI SERVICE Sick of driving an old Ford? CHEAP is EXPENSIVE. Great set price deals with our 50 series hybrids on lpg. Bayside Taxi Service, 313 Bay Road, Cheltenham. For more info call (03) 9555 1155 or 0414 566 779.

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · September 2020

33

OVERSEAS

news

Public transport emerges as the top use of IoT in cities

by Sarah Wray

Connected public transport is ranked as the leading Internet of Things (IoT) use case for cities in new research from market insights and consulting firm IoT Analytics.

According to the Smart City Use Cases & Technology Adoption Report 2020 report – which is based on a survey of 50 decision-makers from cities including London, Barcelona,

34

Dubai, Beijing, Berlin, Singapore and Washington – connected public transport has a 74 percent implementation rate.

The technology combines real-time monitoring of vehicles’ locations and routes with notifications and personalised travel updates for passengers. Advanced systems also connect public transport

vehicles with traffic lights and each other, enabling smarter mobility management.

The research finds that 72 percent of cities have deployed solutions for traffic monitoring and management; water level and flood monitoring; and video surveillance and analytics.

Over two-thirds (68 percent) have adopted connected streetlights.

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · September 2020

Uber is also expecting some participation by local governments.

The company noted that in London, where it has implemented a "Clean Air Plan" in concert with city officials, over 1 million electric trips were completed in 2019. Uber plans to launch a similar plan for France, which will include company matches toward EV purchases by its French drivers.

Uber targets all-electric rides by 2030, zero-emission platform by 2040

by Stephen Edelstein

Uber wants its bread-and-butter ride-sharing service to be allelectric by 2030 in the United States, Canada, and Europe, the company announced. Uber also plans to make every service on its platform zero-emissions by 2040, and to achieve net-zero carbon emissions from its corporate operations by 2030.

The 2030 goal is dependent on working with local stakeholders "to implement policies that ensure a fair transition to EVs for drivers," Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi said in a statement.

The company will start by expanding its Uber Green option to more than 15 U.S. and Canadian cities.

This allows customers to select an electric car or hybrid with the push of a button, albeit with an extra $1.00 charge. That means riders are effectively subsidising Uber's move toward lower emissions.

At least that money will go directly to drivers. In the U.S. and Canada, hybrid and EV drivers will get an extra $0.50 per Uber Green trip directly from riders, and EV drivers will get an additional $1.00, bringing the total incentive to $1.50 per trip.

Uber also said it would commit $800 million to help drivers in the U.S., Canada, and Europe transition to electric cars, and will work with automakers to get deals for drivers. That includes General Motors in the U.S. and Canada, and Renault-Nissan in France, the Netherlands, Portugal, and the United Kingdom.

In the U.S., Uber will work with Avis on discounted EV rentals.

The company is also partnering with multiple charging networks in different markets to give ride-sharing drivers discounted charging.

In addition to ride-sharing Uber offers Lime bike and scooter rentals, carpooling, and publictransit partnerships on its digital platform. These services are expected to continue, despite the ongoing coronavirus pandemic curtailing demand.

Uber is following rival Lyft, which announced in June it was also aiming to go all-electric by 2030— and is getting a little more specific about exactly how it will get there (largely through subsidised rental programs at first). It's likely a necessary step for the ride-sharing industry's long-term survival.

Earlier this year, a California report laid it out bluntly: That because ride-hailing increased the amount of miles with only the driver in the vehicle, ride-hailing needs to go electric so it won't add to pollution.

Last year, a study looking at air pollution in London and Paris found that ride-hailing was worsening air quality in those cities.

So it's not all that surprising that each EV put to use in ride-sharing delivers a bigger benefit. A recent study found that EVs used in these services deliver greater environmental benefits than in personal use.

DRIVE A2B magazine ¡ www.drivea2b.com.au ¡ September 2020

35

pollution rules

are tightening in inner city areas

Paris, for instance, last year introduced an 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday ban on pre-2006 diesel vehicles. (As well as on motorbikes registered before July 1 2004).

London has its ‘Ultra-Low Emission Zone’ (ULEZ) where older, more polluting vehicles are hit with extra charges on top of the congestion tax that is levied for travelling within the zone.

On top of that, London no longer offers new licences to taxi cabs that run on diesel. In Madrid (Spain), petrol vehicles registered before 2000 (and diesel ones registered before 2006) are banned from the 272 hectare central Madrid area.

And these cities are not alone – more and more cities are introducing bans and restrictions on Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles. Obviously, full batteryelectric vehicles (BEVs) are exempt from these bans, and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) are not – as their ICE motor is always running.

But where do plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) fit in? PHEVs can run on their ICE motor alone, in

36

combination with their electric motor, or electric only.

As pollution bans tighten, PHEVs are becoming lumped in with the ICE vehicles and cop the bans or additional charges too. However, some new developments may mean that for the purposes of these bans and restrictions, PHEVs can be regarded as BEVs. This is because a new crop of PHEVs from BMW and Ford will automatically switch to ‘electric only’ when driving in predefined, geo-fenced regions areas such as congestion and low emission zones.

In the case of BMW, this function has just been enabled for all new BMW PHEVs (as well as compatible recent models via an over-the-air update) when driving in London and Bir mingham in the UK. A roll-out of the system will then occur across a series of European cities.

In the case of Ford, the function has been added to the PHEV Transit van available in the UK. It also works via live location data to ensure it automatically switches to electric-only mode when entering

a defined low emissions region. In order to avoid the risk of wrongful fines and penalties, it also records information about electric-only operation within the defined area which can be shared with authorities to confirm compliance with low-emission zone regulations.

Sadly, here in Australia we have poor fuel quality standards, outdated fuel economy standards and no plan for a move away from fossil fuels and their associated climate changing effects.

As a result, we are unlikely to see these model features here any time soon. Instead, Australian importers will continue to bring in their older technology vehicles.

The outcome? A triple whammy on the typical Australian new car buyer as that vehicle is: •

more expensive in fuel use to run,

•

more harmful to the health of our population, and

•

making it ever harder to meet our CO2-e reduction obligations under the Paris Accord.

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · September 2020

TRADE

DIRECTORY TAXI CAMERA DEALS!!

BUY OR RENT BUY from $1,499 + fitting RENT $22/month + fitting + security deposit

+ G5 TAXIMETERS - RENT OR BUY + VerifEye Camera Repairs + Roof Lights, EFTPOS, racks, installations etc Schmidt Electronic Laboratories Pty Ltd Call 0421 046 015 info@schmidt.com.au www.schmidt.com.au

YOU COULD DEFINITELY

ADVERTISE

HERE

CALL 0400 137 866 TO BOOK YOUR SPACE

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS

TAXI

CONVERSIONS

YOUR VOICE with ...

• State and Federal Government • Victorian, Queensland and Western Australia Industry1300 Regulators 133 353 • State Airports

1300 133 353

www.avagroup.net.au

ONLY

120

$

www.avagroup.net.au

per person

/per year

TAXI CONVERSIONS

www.taa-national.com.au

STARTING FROM

info@taa-national.com.au

@TransportAllianceAustralia

$13,695.00

+ OPTIONS

 Lift Type Vertical Split Long Platform Internal Fully Automatic

Introducing FREE 10 min tax chats  2 x Sets Slide & click W-Chair & L/Sash Occupant Restraints

 2 x Toyota Style Original Folding Seats c/w New Floor & Wall Brackets  Flush Floor & Polyflor Non Slip Floor Coverings

 Reverse Triple or 4 Seater, Crash Frame, Seat Belts & Head Rests  Large Metal Lockable Restraint Storage Box at Rear  3 x Child Restraint Anchor Points & Fixings

Anyone who has a tax question and isn’t sure where to turn to, the people at Airtax will do their best to support you, or find someone who can help.

1300 133 353 Helping you understand an assortment of www.avagroup.net.au tax related issues that you may be facing 49 Fennell St, Port Melbourne Vic 3207 | 1636 Sydney Rd, Campbellfield Vic 3061

23 Armada Place, Banyo QLD 4014 | 54 - 60 Industry Dve, Tweed Heads NSW 2486

As part of this phone call, we’ll get you familiar with Airtax so you know you’re on the right track, and break down exactly what you need to do to stay up-to-date with the ATO.

And there's lots of help available in our help centre at https://airtax.com.au/contact Book your 10 minute FREE tax chat today at https://calendly.com/airtax/10-min-tax-chat

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · September 2020

37

Only $35 for 50 words Payment details are listed on page 4

ADVERTISE HERE!

Approved CPV

•

meters for sale and installation

•

cars for sale & for lease

•

businesses for sale

• •

•

taxi camera service

•

security cameras

•

mobile phones

•

bluetooth speakers

•

vehicle repairs

• • •

Basically anything that can be used with, in or for a taxi, hire car, limousine.

Taxi Cameras - Low Cost G5 Taximeters – rent or buy Fed up with paying depot fees? Then go “independent” with a low-cost Taxi Camera and G5 Taximeter. Save thousands of dollars every year! Professional installation services for roof lights, racks, EFTPOS etc.

Call 0421 046 015 or visit our website www.schmidt.com.au

Compliant in VIC – NSW – ACT Compliant Taxi Braille /Tactile Numbering and CCTV Stickers CabCharge Approved Installer STOP paying Monthly Fees – GO Independent in 4 Easy Steps!

Master Mechanic 30 YEARS Qualified Automotive Mechanic / Technician

For more info visit www.taxiservices.com.au or call 0434 423 423.

Business For Sale Once in a Lifetime …

Incredible business opportunity now available in the Whitsundays due to owner's retirement.

Established Wedding Limousines, with work until October 2021. The location is idyllic, the lifestyle is unbelievable and best of all … the price is right. Call today for more information on 0408 425 431.

Leases Wanted - Brisbane

FOR SALE

We are expanding in Brisbane. If you have assignments to lease we will pay $100. Call into our office in Salisbury and ask for Tuna Guclu or call 0419 484 666 to discuss price and terms.

Launceston Taxi Licence

Advertisers’ Directory 38

Taxi Security Camera

Plate only, Price Negotiable. Contact Norm on 6344 6007 or alternately call 0417 366 167.

Airtax................................................ 37

Embassy Cafe................................ 31

AMS Ivanhoe Lawyers.................. 29

Rod Barton, MP.............................. 25

Australian Government................. 40

Schmidt Elec. Labs........................ 37

AVA Group...................................... 37

Transport Alliance Australia........... 33

DRVR Training...................................9

Transport Matters Party............... 17

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · September 2020

PICK UP YOUR OWN COPY

DRIVE

Voice of the Australian Commercial Passenger Transport Industry

SEPTEMBER 2020 | EDITION 38

EVERY MONTH FROM THESE BUSINESSES ACT Aerial Taxis Canberra Cabs Canberra Elite Taxis

Which is cuter, the Microlino electric bubble car or its electric scooter companion? PAGE 20 National Magazine

Taxis, Hire Cars, Wedding cars, Limousines

Owners, Drivers, Partners, Operators

Suppliers, Networks, Booking Service Providers

NT Alice Springs Taxis

NSW Alexandria

13cabs, NSW Taxi Council

Bankstown

Mikhael & Co Mech Repairs

Cromer

Manly Warringah Cabs

QLD

Marcoola

Suncoast Cabs

Albion

Delta Taxi Management Taxicomms

Zevra

Premier Cabs

Maryborough

Toowoomba

Dubbo

Salisbury

Virginia

Kingsgrove

Wooloongabba

Leumeah

Black & White Cabs

Brisbane Airport

Southport

Granville

Crown Cabs Occhi's Business Class Taxis

Black & White Cabs

Kelvin Grove

KG Taxi Management

Black & White Cabs QLD Limo Action Group 13cabs Brisbane

Dubbo Bus Lines St George Cabs Sanitsation Station

Mascot

RSL Cabs, GM Cabs

Newscastle

SA 13cabs - Adelaide Adelaide Ind. Taxis Taxi Council of SA

TAS Casuarina Blue Taxis

Launceston Taxi Combined Services

Prestons

Victoria Park

St Peters

Swan Taxis Co-op Ltd

Belmont

Black & White Cabs (WA)

Greenfields

SUBSCRIBE

13cabs Taxi Tech Zevra Taxi Base

Tamworth

Buslines Depot Sanitisation Station

Mandurah Taxis

West Gosford

Crown Cabs

Wolli Creek

ComfortDelGro (WA)

Wollongong

Morley

FREE

13cabs

WA

Victoria Park

ON LINE AT www.DRIVEA2B.com.au

Central Coast Taxis Legion Cabs lllawarra Taxi Network

VIC Ascot Vale Westbourne Motors

Ballarat Taxis Bendigo Taxis Brunswick East Platinum Taxis

Campbellfield Taxi Hire Services

Clayton South Schmidt Electronic Labs

Coburg North Silver North Taxi Management

Collingwood Silver Top Taxis

Fitzroy Equity Transport Group

Geelong Taxis Huntingdale Black & White Cabs P2P Transport

Mentone Savid Taxis

Mildura Taxis

Moorabbin Eastmoor Taxis

North Melbourne 13cabs, Alex Taxis, Live Taxi

Oakleigh 13cabs

Port Melbourne Melbourne Star, Oiii, Netcabs

Reservoir Exclusive Cab M'ment

Seaford Frankston Taxis

Shepparton Taxis Thomastown 13cabs, Southern Cross Chauffeurs

Tullamarine All Cars, Crown Cabs Taxi Hire Services

Vermont Autogas West Melbourne Embassy Café

Wodonga Taxis

OFFICIAL MEDICAL ADVICE

Don’t risk it.

Always follow the health advice.

It’s up to all of us to keep each other safe.

You must continue to practise good hygiene, physical distancing, and if you’re even slightly unwell, get tested and stay at home. Don’t risk it.

The sooner we all do it, the sooner we’ll get through it.

Have the App Visit australia.gov.au