TaxiPoint February 2020 Edition 10

The UK’s Premier Taxi Publication

Edition 10 | Feb 2020

Over 60,000 digimag reads each month!

When is it LEGAL to interact with a MOBILE DEVICE whilst driving?

PLUS METER LAW ‘HACKED OFF’ IN BRIGHTON Q&A WITH GETT MD TRAFFIC AND POLLUTION GLOBAL ROUND UP

How do ‘INFLUENCERS’ influence the taxi industry? www.taxi-point.co.uk

Content and Editorial

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 3

HACKED

OFF!

TaxiPoint Chief Editor: Perry Richardson TaxiPoint Editor: Michael Murphy

p22

p12

TaxiPoint Publishing & Advertising Manager: Lindsey Richardson

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Visit us online at: www.taxi-point.co.uk

p4 Welcome to the tenth edition of TaxiPoint’s DigiMag. In the month ahead the industry will hope to hear which recommendations have made it as nationwide statutory rules, and which will likely remain as guidance, as the government are set to announce the long awaited taxi reform.

TaxiPoint will be covering all the developments in the coming weeks, alongside every trade news story and updates from upcoming trips to the House of Commons and the Taxi and Ride-hailing Conference and Exhibition in Karlsruhe, Germany where we are an official media partner.

The event, which will be held parallel to the IT-TRANS between 3-5 March, will see roughly 150 international speakers discuss the future of the industry with approximately 7,000 visitors due to attend. As a publication, TaxiPoint are delighted and proud to partner the global event and look forward to reporting on it further.

Be lucky and hope to see the end of kipper soon!

Perry Richardson

Write to us at: contact@taxi-point.co.uk Advertising enquires at: advertising@taxi-point.co.uk The publishers reserve the right to refuse, withdraw, amend or otherwise deal with all advertisements without explanation. All advertisers must comply with the British Code of Advertising practice.

The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers.

All written and image rights are reserved by the author as displayed.

Reproduction in whole or in part without prior permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.

Copyright brand TaxiPoint 2020. Creative Common image licenses displayed where applicable.

TaxiPoint Chief-Editor and Licensed Taxi Driver

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The Q&A

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 4

New UK Gett MD: Fixed fares, ‘tech’ fees and plans for 2020 Duncan Burgess has taken over as interim Managing Director of Gett in the UK - here he speaks to TaxiPoint for the first time and answers our questions.

What are Gett’s plans for 2020, both in London and the rest of the UK? The last four months of 2019 were our most successful ever for Black Cabs - with the average amount going into drivers’ pockets going up significantly and the total number of rides growing too compared to earlier in the year. This is thanks to all the drivers who use our platform, do jobs and deliver such high standards. Gett also won more corporate accounts increasing further the amount of account work in Black Cabs. I think we now have more Black Cab corporate account work in London than all the other apps and circuits put together. We’re aiming to do even more in 2020 continue growing the number of users who want to take Black Cabs, build corporate accounts further, and keep putting more money in cabbies’ pockets.

Why do you believe the industry, including Gett, needs to offer fixed price fares? How do the algorithms work out the price on Gett?

First of all, I’d like to say that we don’t offer fixed fares to the general public anymore. The only exception to this is airport jobs, where we find that members of the public really do want a fixed fare. Where Gett drivers will see Fixed Fares on jobs is with our corporate clients. The reason we do this is simple: corporate clients want fixed fares. They will come to us and say that we want to use Black Cabs instead of PHVs

“We’re aiming to do even more in 2020 - continue growing the number of users who want to take Black Cabs, build corporate accounts further, and keep putting more money in cabbies’ pockets.”

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The Q&A

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 6

for certain rides for their employees, but they want those fares fixed so they can budget and keep control.

Fixed fares are calculated using a number of factors the journey itself, the meter rate applicable at the time, live traffic information (or predicted traffic if it’s a prebooked job) and a Google Maps assessment of the likely route. Our aim is to get them as close to the meter as possible. We know that there are times when we get it wrong, and we’re always working to improve the calculation.

What are your thoughts on Uber’s latest operator licence rejection? How do you see Uber’s future in the capital and globally?

TaxiPoint is asking me all the tough questions! The ruling certainly emphasised how important it is to maintain compliance, and offer high standards to this great city and look after customers and clients as well as possible. That’s why we’re so proud to offer Black Cabs to both the general public and to corporate clients - from the helpful and friendly drivers and the fantastic Can you tell us more about the feedback from drivers new vehicles, to the knowledge of the streets and the safety & security drivers offer. But it also shows why we and customers about Gett tech fees? Are more must all work together to deliver the best service - we’ll journeys being covered? bring high value customers taking longer rides and Tech fees have had a hugely positive impact. By making keeping money in your pocket, but when using our a charge to our users when they choose to use the Gett platform drivers need to keep their own standards up platform to get a Black Cab, we’re raising additional looking after wheelchair passengers and others with money that we can use to offer drivers incentives to additional needs, in line with the obligations, and take jobs with us. This ultimately gets more money into overall maintaining that Black Cab standard that’s drivers’ pockets - which drivers tell us they appreciate famous the world over. particularly during Kipper - and also helps cover the run -in when the traffic is bad. I’m not going to pretend that Air quality is a hot topic in all cities around the UK. What realistic measures do you think the taxi industry there aren’t some customers who don’t like the can put in place to be seen as proactive? additional fee they pay to Gett but the majority don’t mind because it gives them the convenience of our It is a hot topic - including in London of course. I know service and helps ensure they get a cab. One thing it that the conversion to zero emissions capable taxis has done is helped ensure our most loyal users get cabs hasn’t been easy for drivers and brings additional costs, when they want them - and it’s great those people are but it really is the way forward. In the next five to ten choosing Black Cabs regularly. years almost the whole London taxi fleet will have been renewed to zero emissions capable standards and that

Image: Ross Campbell

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The Q&A

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 7

is very welcome for the general public and corporate users. For our part, we pay to offset the carbon emissions of every single ride on the Gett platform. Customers can also pay an extra 20p to make their ride environment-positive, as we use the funds raised to pay for air quality initiatives in schools. We also help by cutting down on empty miles connecting passengers to the nearest driver, the going home feature that makes sure jobs are in the right direction, and keeping you busy without you having to drive around searching for the next job.

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Feature

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 9

How do ‘influencers’ influence the taxi industry?

Social media plays a significant role in people’s daily lives now. Like any platform which communicates with large communities, digital media also generates value and opportunity for marketers hoping to be heard in niche or large groups.

According to their advert, the setup is simple. People with large numbers of followers were asked to create ‘awesome’ Bolt related content for Instagram and other social media platforms, in exchange for free Bolt rides and/or money, plus ‘perks’ in exchange.

As a result, a new form of marketing has emerged from the social media revolution where individuals can become ‘influencers’ within their community.

The minimum requirement that Bolt were looking for is an engaged audience of at least 5,000 people. After that it comes down to data. Bolt says it would ‘take into account things like niche, follower count, engagement rate and the quality of it, audience’s age, location and overall credibility’.

In a growing trend, influencers are paid by firms to promote services or products on social media. This might include paid-for endorsements, product placement in images or for them to give opinion on a product in the field they are trusted in.

These third-party influencers come from varied backgrounds, from famous celebrities, industry advisers, academics and of course journalists.

(Although, just for the record, TaxiPoint have never accepted payment for opinion!)

Most of those on Bolt’s Ambassador Program receive free rides as a reward for their work, however the top performing 20% of influencers also get paid extra on top in the form of a bonus.

As the taxi industry adapts to the latest technology, it So how does this effect the taxi industry? What might must also change in the way it communicates with a taxi industry influencer look like? both new and current customers. Local and national In November 2019, private hire ride-hailing firm Bolt public figures could soon play a big part in marketing your future. launched a campaign looking for more than 500 social media influencers to take part in future marketing activities. It was called the ‘Bolt Ambassador Program’.

Who would be a realistic influencer in your local authority?

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Mobile Phone Usage

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 10

Police spark taxi trade confusion:

When is it legal to interact with a mobile device whilst driving?

Image credit: MPSRTPC

Police have sparked confusion after a London taxi driver was reported for using his mobile phone whilst driving.

There are over 109,000 private hire drivers licensed

by Transport for London (TfL), who rely on booking apps like Uber, Bolt and Kapten.

According to the Metropolitan Police, the cabbie was stopped by an undercover private hire vehicle on Nine Elms Lane near Vauxhall.

To accept work they must be able to instantly read and interact with a mobile device.

The Met Police Roads and Transport official responded by saying: “If you don’t maintain proper control of your vehicle, you could be committing an offence. It depends purely on the circumstances/situation.”

Transport MPS have left taxi drivers unsure of what constitutes ‘Not In Proper Control’. The Metropolitan Police need to give clear guidance on this issue, so that all drivers know precisely where they stand."

One taxi driver asked the Met Police: “Can you The driver was reported for being “Not in Proper please explain what proper control of the vehicle is Control” whilst driving. please? TfL have taken away my right to ply for hire The offence however sparked confusion as to when and my work comes through a phone. you can or can’t interact with a mobile device “How do I accept a job without committing an whilst driving, with many citing the use of private offence?” hire booking apps.

There has been no further comment.

One person asked the police: “If my phone is in a David Kurten, a London Assembly Member and cradle and I touch it to accept a job on an app. Am I independent mayoral candidate, said: "By breaking the law?” responding as they have done, Roads and

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Imag

Mobile Phone Usage

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 12

According to Transport for London (TfL), it has been illegal to use a handheld mobile phone or electronic device while driving, or while stopped with the engine on, since 2003.

The law says: •

It's illegal to use a handheld mobile phone or electronic device when driving. This includes using your device to follow a map, read a text or check social media. This applies even if you're stopped at traffic lights or queuing in traffic

•

You can only use a handheld phone if you are safely parked with the engine switched off or need to call 999 or 112 in an emergency, and it's unsafe or impractical to stop

•

Using hands-free (where the phone is in a cradle or you are using earphones or a Bluetooth connection) is not illegal. However, if this distracts you and affects your ability to drive safely, you can still be prosecuted by the police

•

It is illegal to use handheld microphones or to hold your phone out on loudspeaker.

The use of apps, for example for navigation, on a cradle-mounted phone is lawful if done with common sense and good judgement.

(TfL) Between 6 April 2016 and 27 February 2017 there were 9,560 mobile phone offences in London, while in 2015, 2 people were killed and 5 seriously injured in collisions where a mobile phone was a contributory factor.

Since 1 March 2017, the penalties for the use of handheld mobile devices while driving have increased to six penalty points on your licence and a £200 fine.

Having points on your licence could increase the cost of your insurance and you can be banned from driving if you get 12 points in three years. If you get 6 points in the first two years after passing your test, you will lose your licence.

Image credit: Pexels

Image: LEVC

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Legal

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 14 Image credit: Dynamo Taxi

KNOW THE LAW...

TAXIMETER

Under section 65 of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976:

2.

“A district council may fix the rates or fares within the district as well for time as distance, and all other charges in connection with the hire of a vehicle or with the arrangements for the hire of a vehicle, to be paid in respect of the hire of hackney carriages by 3. means of a table (hereafter in this section referred to as a “table of fares”) made or varied in accordance with the provisions of this section.”

Whilst the power to set fares is discretionary, most licensing authorities do. If you are licensed by a licensing authority that does regulate fares, there are a number of statutory rules that you must comply with. These duties are outlined in model byelaws set by the Department for Transport (DfT).

They include: 1.

Where an agreement has been made in advance to pay a fare lower than that displayed on the taximeter, the licence holder will commit an offence if he demands a fare higher than the agreed amount (s. 54 Town Police Clauses Act 1847).

There is no provision for a hackney carriage driver to charge (or agree a fare) higher than that shown on the taxi meter (s. 55 Town Police Clauses Act 1847) unless the journey starts in the licensing authority’s area, agreement of the higher fare is agreed in advance, and the journey ends outside the licensing authority’s area. (s. 66 Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976).

Vehicle proprietors or licensed driver can be If your taxi is fitted with a taximeter, it must prosecuted, fined, face civil claims and, in some be on and used for all journeys (byelaw 5(b)). cases, be imprisoned for offences of overcharging or not honouring agreements.

Article written by:

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Charity

May 2019 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 20

Congestion

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 16

TRAFFIC AND

POLLUTION Image: Pexels

According to a survey taken across seven European countries, the majority of Uber and taxi users are willing to pay more for a trip in an electric, zero emissions vehicle, with many admitting they believe the ride-sharing app has contributed to more traffic and higher levels of pollution.

people (60%) aged 18-24 surveyed are willing to pay more for a clean ride.

This is especially true with young people who use Uber services more frequently, as six out of 10

where the corporation has extensive operations, have a more negative perception of the company’s impact on pollution.

Suggestions have been made for Uber to help its drivers with the upfront cost of switching to electric cars. Electric cars are cheaper to run than fossil fuel cars due to lower fuel, insurance and maintenance More than half (52%) of the taxi and Uber customers costs, but initial costs can seem quite daunting for surveyed are willing to pay an extra 15-20 pence drivers working in an uncertain, highly competitive (euro) per km for a zero-emission ride, according to a industry. new online YouGov poll published by the NGO Another key finding of the survey is that people most campaign #TrueCostOfUber. exposed to Uber, those living in the big metropoles

This is particularly notable in London and Paris, Uber’s two biggest markets in Europe.

Almost half (44%) of Londoners surveyed say Uber has a negative impact on pollution overall, while only one in eight (12%) think Uber has a positive impact on air quality.

Similarly, over a third (34%) of Parisians say Uber impacts negatively on pollution levels in the city, compared to a fifth (21%) who think the opposite.

Yoann Le Petit, new mobility expert with

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Congestion

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 17

Transport & Environment (T&E), said: “Uber’s customers are wise to its air pollution and are even willing to chip in for a clean ride. Now Uber must do its fair share for the climate and our health. Thus, the #TrueCostOfUber campaign urges the company to electrify its fleet in its 10 biggest European cities by 2025.”

The latest T&E analysis of the taxi and ride-hailing market estimated that in London and Paris alone, the emissions of Uber services could be as high as half a megatonne of CO2 515 kilotonnes of CO2. This is equivalent to adding the CO2 emissions of an extra 250,000 privately owned cars to the road.

with 3.6 million users in London in 2019 and 2.7 million users in France in 2017. Worryingly, French government data from 2017 shows that 90% of the registered private hire vehicles, including those of Uber is one of the biggest mobility services in Europe, Uber, were diesel cars.

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Licensing

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 18

The government “will be issuing statutory taxi and private hire standards shortly” Image credit: Ross Campbell

The government “will be issuing statutory taxi and private hire standards shortly”, according to a leading Government MP.

In November 2019, the Local Government Association (LGA) argued that revamped taxi laws could make enforcement easier through introducing a common set of licensing standards, and be updated to reflect new Nusrat Ghani made the announcement during a technology which would help reduce the risk of child transport topical questions debate in the House of sexual exploitation, improve passenger safety, and Commons on 30 January. create a level playing field for drivers by tackling out-of The taxi industry and local authorities have been calling -area working. on the Government to strengthen taxi and private hire The LGA is also calling for national minimum licensing legislation - some of which dates back to 1847 and horse-drawn hackney carriages - to improve passenger standards for drivers of taxis and PHVs, and a mandatory national database of all licensed taxi and safety in light of the explosion of app-based taxi and private hire vehicle (PHV) companies and increased out PHV drivers. In order to strengthen licensing processes, the LGA launched its own national register of taxi and -of-area working.

PHV licences which have been refused or revoked, so Latest figures show the total number of licensed taxi councils can check new applicants against the database and PHVs in England increased to 291,800 in 2019, an and update it with their own information. increase of 58% on the 184,500 licensed vehicles in But whilst updated statutory guidance for councils 2005 when comparable records were first collected. around taxi licensing is seen as a positive step, the LGA These figures have largely been driven by a surge in say that ultimately the best way to strengthen licensed PHVs, which have risen to 221,200 in 2019, a safeguarding measures and ensure a level playing field staggering increase of 83% on the 120,400 PHVs in for all drivers is for government to update taxi laws.

2005.

Image: LEVC

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Licensing

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 19

Wes Streeting, Labour MP for Ilford North, asked the House of Commons: “Given that nearly three years have passed since the all-party parliamentary group on taxis laid out the case for reform of legislation governing the taxi and private hire industry, and a year has passed since the Government accepted that case, when can we finally expect them to legislate for the reform we need?”

hire standards shortly. Having had many conversations with the hon. Member, I think he can be quite confident that most of the issues raised will be addressed.”

more equal in their service, while providing security and safety for passengers.

In February 2019 the Government responded to the report, but there has been little movement since then with some claiming Brexit debates as a reason for the lack of progress made.

The Task and Finish Group on Taxi and Private Hire Vehicle Licensing was established in September 2017.

The group's remit was to consider evidence relating to the adequacy of current taxi and private hire vehicle Nusrat Ghani, Parliamentary Under-Secretary licensing authority powers, as set out in legislation and (Department for Transport) and Government Whip, guidance, and to make recommendations for actions to responded by saying: “I know that the hon. Member has been working incredibly hard, along with members address any priority issues identified. of the Transport Committee.

The Chair of the group, Professor Mohammed AbdelHaq, submitted his report to the Secretary of State for “We put together a task and finish group to ensure Transport on 9 July 2018. that taxi services up and down the country are far

“We will be issuing statutory taxi and private

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Feature

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 20

It’s less than 6 months until one of the most iconic sporting events in the world. The Olympic Games. And talking of icons, here’s two taxis we can expect to hear lots about.

Back in 2017 the Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) launched a new taxi vehicle, the ‘JPN Taxi’. The new model became available to buy at Toyota and dealers nationwide in a bid to prepare for this year’s Tokyo Olympic Games.

The JPN Taxi was developed to provide ‘usability’ and comfort to a wide range of people, including children, seniors, wheelchair users, and visitors to Japan from abroad.

Toyota’s aim was to change Japan's landscape,

develop barrier-free cities, and transform Japan into a tourist-oriented country by promoting the widespread use of its JPN Taxis.

Design features include a low, flat floor, making it easy for customers to enter and exit the taxi, a wideopening, power rear sliding door (left side only) and space to accommodate wheelchair users.

In addition, the taxi is designed to ‘beautifully complement’ the cityscape while at the same time being easily recognisable as a taxi.

Environmental performance and power performance were both taken to new levels when comparing it to taxis of old. By employing a newly developed liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) hybrid system, the new model offers 19.4 km/L4 fuel economy and sharply reduced CO2 emissions.

However, the Toyota will also now have a rival vying for gold. The British-made London taxi is about to also become a familiar sight in Japan, as London Electric Vehicle Company (LEVC) launched its electric TX model at an exclusive event in Tokyo in January.

Image: Toyota

Joerg Hofmann, LEVC's CEO, said: “We are delighted to further grow

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Feature

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 21

our international footprint of green mobility solutions with the launch of the TX in Japan. We are reinventing a British icon, transforming the company from a traditional taxi manufacturer to a green mobility company, producing a wider range of electric commercial vehicles.

“The electric TX will set new standards across Japan in the taxi and premium shuttle market, delighting passengers, drivers and fleet operators alike. We are looking forward to seeing TX on the streets of Tokyo and across cities throughout Japan.”

Image: LEVC

the vehicle has become a ‘high-priced’ centre piece for the forthcoming Games.

So which vehicle will win gold with the millions of The Toyota JPN Taxi has been involved in some tourists from around the world travelling to Tokyo controversy since it was launched, with some claiming this summer? Time will tell.

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Feature

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 22

Secretary of GMB Brighton & Hove Taxi Section Andrew Peters talks south coast PHV floods...

HACKED

OFF!

With Brighton & Hove having been literally flooded with PHV OOT’s (Private Hire Vehicle Out of Towner’s) from Southampton, Portsmouth, Chichester, Havant, Fareham and with the biggest flood from next door in Lewes DC all working under Uber... the local trade has been in despair and for good reasons too.

However the biggest issue we have are the hundreds of Lewes DC PHV and hackney carriages that predominantly work here in the city under Uber but unfortunately Lewes Council are out of touch and effectively unable to cope with the amount of PHV licences that All Brighton & Hove licensed drivers have to attain the are now being sought there. This is because Lewes is a soft touch licensing area which is like local Knowledge test, achieving a minimum of a 90% pass rate. We have compulsory CCTV and must abide a giant honey pot waving at all and sundry to by our ever-growing conditions of licensing known as get licensed there and we have no doubt that the ‘Blue Book’. We are subject to random checks by Lewes DC will become the next the local enforcement and much more. And yet all Wolverhampton. these OOT’s work many miles away out of sight and out of mind of their own respective enforcement.

So overwhelmed by all the applications for licences Not surprisingly, many licensing plates and livery signs that there is now a backlog causing delays in drivers have been ‘missing’ from these OOT’s, probably having being handed their shiny new plates. And so overwhelmed that the council has even been been removed whilst working here to hinder being contravening its own conditions of licensing by dual identified, and we have reported these back to their plating several TfL PHV’s which it is not allowed to do. respective licensing authorities to have these called It is only the eagle eyes of the Brighton & Hove trade back for inspection.

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Feature

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 24

that spots these blatant mistakes where we report these to LDC along with missing plates and livery door signs.

Beresford, arranged a meeting with Lewes DC where we expressed our concerns.

We were informed that the council was due to revise A major issue is that we are flooded with not only its conditions of licensing and I strongly recommended these LDC PHV’s but also LDC hackneys. We all know that the council had an ‘Intended Use Policy’ for its that the status of the hackney carriage is to primarily hackney carriages. This policy cannot be applied to a serve the streets and ranks of their respective licensing PHV; it should be, but it’s not. Incidentally LDC has an area. Whilst it has always been the case that a hackney unlimited policy for hackney carriage numbers. carriage can undertake private hire work in another This was put to the council and passed, coming into area, what is not acceptable is where such a hackney effect as of May 1st 2019, and any LDC hackney carriage carriage predominantly works in another area and licensed or re-licensed after this date had this never returns to be seen again. condition applied. In fact, Eastbourne Council which jointly works with Lewes DC, looks to be doing the same.

So, slowly as the months drew on, every LDC hackney carriage worked under this condition and within twelve months the policy would be applied to all LDC hackneys. But surprise surprise it hasn’t made any difference to their working pattern and they have carried on regardless, predominantly working in Brighton & Hove.

As a hackney carriage proprietor myself for many years, I have undertaken the odd job via Brighton & Hove Streamline Taxis (an Association of members) outside of my area. But I have never once headed to another town or city to predominantly undertake such work.

Now I must make the point that not all LDC hackneys work this way. The Old School hacks themselves are up in arms with their own council although via natural cross border hiring they quite rightly bring people in and out of the city... but do not predominantly work here.

About three years ago I managed to get our council to re-introduce the ‘Intended Use Policy’ for hackney carriages. We used to have this, but it was removed because apparently there wasn’t enough room on the application form. I am pleased to say that room was once again found and the policy put back in.

However there is a breed of Lewes hackneys who actually think it is their right to predominantly work here, to the extent that one even came to the Brighton

In 2018 when we started to see a massive influx of Lewes PHV’s and hackneys, myself as the local GMB rep along with Sean Ridley the Unite South East Taxi Section rep and the B&H independent rep at the time George

Image: Dynamo

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Feature

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 25

& Hove Uber application to support Uber being licensed here and submitted a letter of support blatantly stating how he wants to work in the city alongside the Brighton & Hove hackney carriages... I kid you not! I distinctly remember actually choking on my cup of tea when I read his statement!

Such is the way that Uber works, we have now seen other OOT hackneys working here as well. One such area that these come from is Mid-Sussex about fifteen miles away. Having communicated with the very nice and I have to state very efficient Mid-Sussex licensing officer (which LDC licensing could learn a lesson on) explaining how their hackneys are now predominantly working here, I was informed that the council has had a limited policy of hackney carriage numbers and has not issued any such licences since 2003. This means that with the limited number policy those hackneys working out of the area are depriving the public of their service in their own licensing area.

them to actually enforce their own conditions of licensing by getting their hackneys to stop predominantly working in Brighton and Hove.

I was also going to push our own council to take action because they actually have enforcement powers over Lewes DC licensed vehicles. This is something we pushed for a couple of years ago.

However, out of the blue I was suddenly passed on information that Uber had just informed all those Lewes DC hackney carriages that as of 31 March they would no longer be able to work on its platform. I was certainly not expecting that and it pretty much became a late January birthday present for me!

Now for the life of me, I cannot fathom why Uber has now made this decision? Why should it cut its workforce without a good reason? I can’t see that this would affect its Lewes Uber Operator Licence, because a hackney carriage I did suggest that Mid-Sussex Council should look at does not have to work under an Operator, even introducing an ‘Intended Use Policy’ and this received a when working in another area. This was ‘nod’, so hopefully if and when this is put to the Midconfirmed by Brighton & Hove council stating Sussex Licensing Committee it will be approved. case law on this.

With the New Year just started, one of my projects was to roll up my sleeves and take Lewes DC on and push

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Feature

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 26

In fact, Uber does not have a Mid-Sussex Operator’s Licence but still it has Mid-Sussex hackney carriages working on its platform. On a side note and quite ironically, no hackney carriage working under Uber can actually accept any job within its own area because of the local council-controlled fares... but can quite freely do this in another area.

Additionally, LDC now has a condition that all hackneys must be white and no PHV is allowed to be white. So, all those LDC hackneys that have bought shiny new white cars may find this a little difficult.

Now I must make it very clear that there is no restriction on Brighton & Hove PHV’s, which is the same all over the country. So anyone who can reach The only thing that comes to mind is that where Lewes the standards required by Brighton & Hove council to DC has the ‘Intended Use Policy’ applied to its hackney become a PHV driver is very welcome to join the trade carriages, Uber would be regarded as encouraging here as a genuine Brighton & Hove driver and work on those drivers to break that condition of licensing, Uber or any of the other local companies... and not be unless I am told anything different. If anyone can come an OOT. up with a different answer, then please let me know.

All they have to do is undertake exactly the Now whilst this is good news for the local Brighton & same knowledge test that the trade has Hove trade, I have always been fully aware that any undertaken and achieve the 90% pass rate and such affected LDC hackney carriage proprietor could adhere to the local conditions of licensing. We just simply re-licence as a PHV. However, the catch to this is that last year LDC also introduced the condition even have knowledge training centres here to of licensing that all newly licensed diesel vehicles must help. I know it is an effort and it is much easier now be Euro 6 compliant (the same as B&H). to take the LDC soft licensing route; but believe So, it is sincerely hoped that those hackneys that may me, it is far better and safer to actually know be looking to change to PH to continue to work under where you are going whilst keeping your eyes Uber, and for all intentions and purposes to continue on the road and not on your satnav. to predominantly work in Brighton & Hove, will now have to upgrade their vehicles.. and not simply swap plates.

Article written by: Andrew Peters (GMB Brighton & Hove Taxi Section)

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International

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 28

Official Media Partners: UITP and messe_karlsruhe invite you to take a ‘Smart more than most, has been the emergence of ridePersonal Ride’ to the Taxi and Ride-Hailing hailing companies.

Conference and Exhibition 2020.

Many of these new players are now part of the We’re all familiar with the choice of new mobility international UITP membership where the Taxi and players offering a first and last mile option to Ride-Hailing Committee brings together both sectors compliment the mass transit that keeps our cities to examine the challenges ahead. moving: but where do they sit alongside the Under the theme “Smart Personal Rides”, the traditional taxis in urban life?

Conference and Exhibition will take place at Karlsruhe Next month, the only event which represents both Trade Fair Centre, running parallel to IT-TRANS. sectors, will arrive in Karlsruhe, Germany (3-5 March Kaan Yildizgoz Senior Director UITP and Author of the 2020).

Book: “Taxıs In the Era of Digitalisation”, said: “By Held in conjunction with IT-TRANS, you’ll gain inholding the Taxi and Ride-Hailing Conference and depth knowledge and learn about smart solutions Exhibition alongside IT-TRANS, it shows the important presented by leading experts from across the world, place taxi transportation and ride-hailing companies at the Taxi & Ride-Hailing Conference & Exhibition have in the discussion concerning the future direction 2020. of urban mobility. Working in partnership with Messe One of the biggest developments during the past five Karlsruhe, UITP will bring recognisable names to the years, and a change that has impacted the taxi sector stage as we share expertise with an international audience. I encourage everyone with a vested

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International

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 29

interest in the revolution of the taxi sector to join us in Karlsruhe next March.”

Examining the challenges that will be faced by the sector in the future, decision makers from transport authorities and recognised taxi experts will share their knowledge and interact with visitors.

Take the opportunity to join an international audience with taxi operators, ride-hailing providers, public transport authorities and operators – all under one roof.

Joint press registration will open in the coming weeks for IT-TRANS and the Taxi and Ride-Hailing Conference and Exhibition.

Key topics will include the future of taxi transportation in the era of technological disruption, Two international events – one free press pass! taxis and new mobility innovations and achieving customer excellence for taxi transport.

The International Association of Public Transport (UITP) works to enhance quality of life and economic well-being by supporting and promoting sustainable transport in urban areas worldwide. With more than 1,700 members in almost 100 countries, UITP has a long history to its name, and is the only worldwide network to bring together all public transport stakeholders and all sustainable transport modes.

Image credit: KMK/Behrendt & Rausch

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Global

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 30

Image: DiDi

Ride-hailing app DiDi provides free transport for medical staff in China’s Coronavirus hit city Didi Chuxing (“DiDi”) and its driver-partners have started serving the city of Wuhan through two special fleets, after the city halted normal public transit and ride-hailing services on 24 January in response to the spread of the Novel Coronavirus.

Upon consultation with the local authorities and medical staff of a number of hospitals, a special fleet of DiDi drivers equipped with protection gear and regularly disinfected vehicles now offer around the clock free transportation to all hospital staff in Wuhan.

virus, while ensuring the health and safety of drivers and partners. DiDi added it is deeply grateful to all the medical workers and driver-partners who join this fight on the frontline.

Since January, DiDi has been distributing face masks and disinfectants to drivers across China. All DiDi drivers and passengers are urged to wear a mask, and drivers are required to disinfect and ventilate their vehicles regularly.

DiDi also put at the disposal of local authorities and neighbourhood committees a community service fleet supported by 1,336 ride-hailing volunteer drivers.

Earlier, authorities announced plans to assemble a taxi fleet of 6,000 to serve Wuhan citizens’ mobility needs.

DiDi have committed to help curb the spread of the Image: DiDi

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Global

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Around the World

A serial injury claimant taxi driver in Ireland has had his latest personal injury quest thrown out of court by a judge, who told him his case had been a complete waste of time.

Khan’s taxi while sitting in traffic – a collision which caused zero damage to both vehicles.

Mohammed Noman Khan, who had settled two previous court cases for injuries totalling almost £20,000, had claimed he sustained injuries following a 1mph collision with a vehicle being driven by a 77-year -old lady.

The case was thrown out after it was heard Khan had told an FBD Insurance Investigator that he had not been injured. Despite Khan denying those claims, his legal team received instructions to withdraw the claim of personal injury.

Khan kept the lady at the scene, waiting an hour for the police to arrive.

The woman admitted accidently rolling forward into

Image: Yandex

Leading Russian ride-sharing taxi service, Yandex, are planning to expand into a number of European countries. Among the considered cities are Madrid and Copenhagen, as well as possible cities in France and Italy.

Yandex executive, Anton Ryazanov said the company will put 1,000 electric vehicles in yet-to-be announced cities.

The firm currently has 21,000 cars in Russia.

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Global

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 32

Around the World The AB5 ruling is designed to make it more difficult for companies in the state to classify those working on their platforms as independent contractors.

With all eyes on one of the ride-sharing firm’s biggest South American markets, Uber Colombia faced a devastating blow when a judge ruled the company violated competition laws.

The feature will be available for drivers at three Californian airports, who will be able to set a fare based on a multiple of Uber’s base time and distance rates for UberX and UberXL trips.

Riders will then be paired with the drivers offering the lowest rates.

This forced the Silicon Valley giants to quit offering their services from 1 February. Customers attempting to order a car from that date were faced with a simple message that read ‘Adios Colombia’.

A spokesperson for Uber said: “Uber was the first company to offer the country an innovative and reliable mobility alternative. Today, six years later, Colombia is the first country in the continent to close the doors to technology.”

But in true Uber fashion, this is not likely to end here.

Reported first by Reuters, Uber has told the Colombian government it is considering taking its dispute to international arbitration, citing damages that could exceed a whopping $250 million (£191m).

Following the outbreak of the Coronavirus, Uber announced the suspension of 240 rider accounts held by people in Mexico who may have been at risk of coming into contact with the deadly virus.

The scare came following the confirmation that a Chinese man who took two Uber rides in the country fell ill and was diagnosed with the virus which has caused worldwide panic.

Both drivers who took the man on his trips, plus any passengers who took journeys with them, will be unable to gain access to the driver or rider platforms A new Californian law known as AB5, has forced the for two weeks – the known incubation period for the hand of Uber to test a new driver feature which allows virus. them to choose how much they will charge customers.

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Vehicle

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 34

Images: Vic Young

Taxi driver takes delivery of first electric taxi in Tayside and Fife area An “excited” Dundee cabbie has taken delivery of the first electric wheelchair taxi in the Tayside and Fife area.

Dundee is seen to be a pioneering city for reducing carbon emissions and recently built its first charging hub station for electric cars.

Brian Marnie, a self-employed driver for Tele & Handys With a rough deadline of 2035 to eliminate sales of Taxis of Balgray Place, Dundee is the first driver in the new diesel/petrol vehicles, the e-NV200 taxis are all area to make the move to the greener technology.

ZERO emissions vehicles and accommodate all sizes of wheelchair.

Until now, unless drivers worked in London they weren’t concerned about congestion charges.

However with an increased number of key cities such as Birmingham, Bristol and Newcastle Upon-Tyne just launching, or with plans to soon launch clean air zones, the congestion and clean air zone charge for electric vehicles may potentially become critical for businesses looking to reduce vehicle costs.

Mr Marnie’s 100% Electric, Zero Emissions Wheelchair

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Vehicle

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 35

Access Hackney conversion by Vic Young (South Shields) Ltd, is powered by a 40kWh lithium-ion battery, and has a range of up to 124-187 miles on a single charge. Drivers can also have peace of mind knowing that the battery has an 8 year/100,000 mile warranty.

typical 3-pin mains plug in 11-18 hours. On average, the cost per electric car mile is 4.78p.

Rapid chargers in public locations such as supermarkets and service stations will charge the Electric Wheelchair Access Hackney from 20% battery to 100% in approximately 45-60 minutes. An installed ‘fast home charger of 7kW’ will charge the vehicle to 100% battery in 7.5 hours. It can also be charged via a

been approved by Nottingham and Dundee city councils with London Hackney approval in process.

Vic Young, Managing Director of Vic Young (South Shields) Ltd, said: “I am extremely proud to be providing Newcastle with high quality, bespoke electric taxis. I firmly believe the market is ready to go allOwner Brian Marnie said: “I’m excited to own the first electric with vehicles for trade and industry.” fully-electric wheelchair access van - it will provide me North East Motor Dealer and Conversions Specialists with a great vehicle that allows me to transport Vic Young has created a range of fully-electric vehicles wheelchair users to their destination, with the added suitable for private and commercial use to meet fact that I’m doing my bit for climate change as well as demand created by the UK government-backed zero potentially saving my business thousands in fuel and carbon agenda. The zero-emission wheelchair access tax costs.” taxi has undergone “rigorous testing” and has already

The e-NV200 wheelchair access taxi price is yet to be set, but will be in the region of £44,000, pending specification required and not including applicable grants.

Images: Vic Young

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Taxi Hero

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 36

Quick-thinking taxi driver helps police catch drink-driver smashing into lamppost

FOLLOW THAT DRUNK! Image: Nottinghamshire Police

Nottinghamshire Police have praised a quick-thinking cabbie who gave a Special Constable a lift, helping her to catch a drink-driver.

Brendon Cassidy, 21, ran off after crashing a car in Nottingham city centre.

Taxi driver Rayhan Islam was driving along Tollhouse Hill towards the city centre at about 4.20am on 21 December 2019 when he heard a loud bang.

caught up with him before she got out and shouted for Cassidy to stop before arresting him on Oxford Street.

Police Constables Lawrence Verney and Christopher Gray also provided assistance following the crash.

SC Sutton said: "I’d like to thank Mr Islam who reacted very quickly to what happened and helped me to catch up with Cassidy and arrest him.

He saw that on the opposite side of the road, a car had "It was a great example of how support from crashed into a lamppost on the traffic island outside members of the public can be vital in helping us to the Byron House police station, just off Maid Marian tackle crime and catch offenders."

Way and Derby Road.

Cassidy, of the Ropewalk, Nottingham, appeared at Mr Islam saw Cassidy get out of the car and run off Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on 30 January for down Derby Road before turning onto North Circus sentencing having pleaded guilty to driving with excess Street. alcohol and failing to stop after an accident on Maid He then saw two police officers – Police Constable Marian Way. Matthew Bower and Special Constable Amy Sutton His breath test returned a reading of 80 micrograms of chase after him. alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath – more than twice Mr Islam turned his taxi around and asked SC Sutton to the legal drink-drive limit of 35mcg per 100 ml of get into his cab to help catch up with Cassidy. breath.

With directions given by SC Sutton, the taxi quickly

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Taxi Hero

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 37

He also pleaded guilty to driving with excess alcohol on Wollaton Street, Nottingham, on 20 December 2019.

On that occasion Cassidy was found to have 79 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath.

Cassidy was banned from driving for 30 months, to be reduced by 228 days if he completes a course by 5 September 2021.

He was also given a 12-week prison sentence, suspended for two years, and was ordered to pay £200 compensation, a £122 victim surcharge and £85 costs.

Cassidy must also take part in an accredited programme for 31 days and complete up to five rehabilitation activity requirement days.

Image: Nottinghamshire Police

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Engine Ban

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Extreme concerns from motorist groups following Government decision to ban petrol and diesel by 2035 Established motorist groups are ‘extremely concerned’ have clarity on the future of the plug-in car grant – the by the government's plans to ban petrol and diesel car most significant driver of EV uptake – which ends in sales by 2035. just 60 days’ time, while the UK’s charging network is still woefully inadequate.

The Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, launched the UN climate conference where he set out the UK’s response to climate change. The PM announced plans to end the sale of new petrol, diesel and hybrid vehicles by 2035 or earlier.

“If the UK is to lead the global zero emissions agenda, we need a competitive marketplace and a competitive business environment to encourage manufacturers to sell and build here. A date without a plan will merely destroy value today.

However, motorist groups have reacted with shock, especially about the decision to ban hybrid vehicles, “So we therefore need to hear how government plans whilst the electric vehicle infrastructure remains costly to fulfil its ambitions in a sustainable way, one that and in its infancy. safeguards industry and jobs, allows people from all income groups and regions to adapt and benefit, and, Mike Hawes, Chief Executive of the Society of Motor crucially, does not undermine sales of today’s low Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), said: “It’s extremely concerning that government has seemingly emission technologies, including popular hybrids, all of which are essential to deliver air quality and climate moved the goalposts for consumers and industry on such a critical issue. Manufacturers are fully invested in change goals now.” a zero emissions future, with some 60 plug-in models now on the market and 34 more coming in 2020.

A spokesperson from the Alliance of British Drivers, said: “There is also no certainty that by 2035 there will “However, with current demand for this still expensive be vehicles available that provide sufficient range, or an adequate network of electric charging points that technology still just a fraction of sales, it’s clear that accelerating an already very challenging ambition will drivers can rely upon. It will also require a major expansion of the electricity grid and generating take more than industry investment. capacity to cope with the increased demand.”

“This is about market transformation, yet we still don’t

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Shocking Footage!

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 39

Life in the fast lane!

Footage captures minicab zooming down London’s flagship cycle lane

Footage of a careless private hire vehicle driving down a flagship London CYCLE LANE was captured by a stunned motorist.

cycle lane at the time. Instead one cyclist was seen using the pavement to negotiate the ÂŁ47million EastWest Cycle Superhighway.

The video shared on social media by @MoZailashi The cycle lane has come under heavy scrutiny since one shows a silver Toyota Prius minicab pulling away at the of its two eastbound traffic lanes was removed in 2016. traffic lights on the north side of Southwark Bridge.

It is claimed that the lane has significantly increased journey times for motor vehicles since its inception.

Shocked bystanders then witnessed the private hire vehicle turn right and straight into the Upper Thames Street two way cycle lane. The car continued to accelerate eastbound despite the sound of horns to warn the minicab of their mistake.

Luckily there were no cyclists using the purpose built

Just over a year ago transport research firm, Volterra Partners, calculated that the consequent delay in journey times has left 15,000 East London businesses out of reach of a 30 minute drive from Westminster during the morning rush hour.

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February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 40

Focus on Glenn Shelford Fat loss expert

Glenn@gfitpt.com

What do you want? Like, really want.

maintain that physique?

Imagine out. In 2 months, 6 months, 12 months’ time; what do each of those fitness milestones look like?

What do you need to have accomplished for those to happen?

3. How can you start living those values TODAY?

Is it being a stone or three lighter? Is it having less body fat than before? Getting back into a sport? Fixing an old injury or maybe just that your back doesn’t hurt as much?

5. Which parts of your skill set or knowledge do you need to improve between now and then? It could be nutrition, motivation, preventing yourself from falling off the wagon, drifting, further learning, anything that will help you.

When I was reading Brendon Burchard’s "High Performance Habits" (recommended read), it mentioned that being clear and focused on these is CRITICAL. Most people want to be skinny, rich, confident and happy; but most people don’t hit their goals. So you have to do something different than what most people are doing to get that result.

4. Who else needs to be on your side, and what relationships do you need to develop, to further ingrain becoming that person?

6. How can you start to work on those from today?

Now I can pretty much guarantee you'll do the following after reading the questions above; breeze over them, and think, “yeah they sound alright”. You might have read ones like these before, and you might do the same as before and just glance at them.

Who are you doing it for? For you? For those close to I’m sure you won’t write them down. Neither will you you? write an in-depth answer to yourself. Next time you’re I’d wager you’re not doing it for you. Or at least doing pulled up on a rank and are channel surfing to find a it for you isn’t a strong enough pull. Otherwise you’d radio station or looking around on social media, you already be doing the actions that’d get you there. definitely won’t be thinking about these questions.

You can move along that path together with those Which would mean that you won't then take those people, or on your own. Sometimes you need to reanswers and make them visible to yourself each evaluate who’s around you; if they’re supporting you morning. Either pinning them on your fridge, or your and adding more positivity to your environment, then wardrobe for when you're getting dressed in the great! But another huge part is cutting off the stuff mornings. Like I said, 99% of people won’t do it... that's hindering your progress.

Also, as an estimation, 99% of the people I meet are So, here's some questions for YOU today: unhappy with their physique and haven’t been able to 1. What does your physique look like in 2, 6 and 12 motivate themselves to keep up with their fitness New months’ time?

Year resolution. Coincidence?

2. What three words encapsulate your lifestyle to

What do you think?

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Charity

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Charity

February 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk |42

Taxi driver funded charity helps 600 disadvantaged and special needs children party in London

Images: LTCFC

A taxi driver funded charity event helped 600 disadvantaged and special needs children party in London.

Bradley Winfield, Chairman of the LTCFC said: “The London Taxi Drivers Charity for Childrens' Mad Hatters Tea Party is such a special day for everyone On Sunday 19 January the London Taxi Drivers' Charity involved. for Children (LTCFC) hosted its annual Mad Hatters Tea “The charity is always overwhelmed by the generosity Party for over 600 disadvantaged and special needs of those who support this party with donations of children, at the Grosvenor House Hotel on Park Lane. their money, their time or their services. It is a real privilege to be part of this annual event and to see so The children were entertained with a disco and live many deserving children, their parents, guardians or music from Britain’s Got Talent’s Donchez Dacres, carers, enjoying this magical afternoon.” tribute acts, Elvis Shmelvis and Ray “Elton” Johnson, plus many more acts on stage.

If that wasn’t enough, the children also enjoyed meeting film and cartoon characters, which included Elsa and Anna from Frozen, Alice in Wonderland, Cinderella and The Little Mermaid.

The LTCFC arranges days out in the UK for special needs and disadvantaged children, and provides funding to support children who need recreational, technology and mobility equipment.

The LTCFC has held a children’s party every year for the last forty eight years and the success of the event has largely been down to the incredible support the charity has from; London cab drivers, charity volunteers and those who help on the day including London Fire brigade, Location Medical Services for their first aid support, Redbridge, Barking & Dagenham and Westminster Volunteer Police Cadets and the Management and staff of the JW Marriott Grosvenor House.

Founded in 1928, the charity is funded totally through donations and supported by an amazing group of volunteer London Taxi Drivers who give up their time to take the children and their carers on day trips.

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Charity

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Charity

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