TaxiPoint July 2020 Edition 15

The UK’s Premier Taxi Publication

Edition 15 | July 2020

Over 150,000 DigiMag reads last month

SEISS LATEST

THE

NEW

NORMAL

“KHAN HAS ‘TEMPORARY’

FAILED

ROAD CLOSURES

THE TRADE” TAX PITFALLS

EXCLUSIVE FROM

SUSAN HALL AM

VEHICLES WWW.TAXI-POINT.CO.UK

CONTENT AND EDITORIAL

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

p24

p10

TaxiPoint Chief Editor: Perry Richardson

“KHAN HAS FAILED THE TAXI TRADE”

TaxiPoint Editor: Michael Murphy

IRRITATIONS

TaxiPoint Publishing & Advertising Manager:

p4

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

THE NEW NORMAL

p12

Write to us at:

p6 SEISS UPDATE

‘TEMPORARY’ ROAD CLOSURES

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.

Welcome to the latest edition of TaxiPoint. We hope you and your family are coping well during these continued challenging times.

In this edition we look at the ‘New Normal’ as more details materialize around how life and our industry may resume post COVID-19. From facemasks to cab sanitisation, road closures and more, this is undoubtedly still a period of great readjustment throughout the UK. Data appears to show that work volumes are slowly improving, fingers crossed that will result in cabbies noticing slight increases in their own individual work levels too as the number of cabbies returning to work plateaus.

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.

As always, you’ll also find the edition full of the latest vehicle, charging and fuel information, along with the worldwide taxi industry headline news.

Be lucky in the coming weeks and stay positive,

Perry Richardson Chief-Editor and Licensed Taxi Driver

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OPINION

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

THE NEW Image: @MMogardo

NORMAL

Emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic appears to be Article written by: a consensus that life simply will not go back to the Perry Richardson way it was. If you are still searching for that light at the end of the tunnel and looking forward to There is however opportunity for the taxi industry returning to the normal before this awful virus, it is here. Public transport season tickets costing likely you’ll need to think again. thousands of pounds will no longer be required. This means more funds available for the individual to Without sugar coating the truth, the taxi industry’s select the mode of transport that is easiest and safest current situation is distressing and jammed full of for them when they do travel. A modern door-toanxiety. However, like every individual or firm out door service with zero-emission capability, safely there, we are all seeking the silver linings and segregated with contactless payment option does opportunities the new normal has to offer. exist and is future-proofed for post-coronavirus.

Like many other major historical events, the Not everyone wants to cycle. Some can’t. Not pandemic has pressed the fast-forward button on debate, technology and agendas which have been in everyone wants to travel to a top-class function on the pipeline for many years. Just like those events in public transport. Families with buggies and small the past, it is important that the industry adapts and children travelling to the zoo do not want the further hassle and worry that the underground brings. And becomes part of the solution moving forwards. when it’s raining, not even the cyclists want to jump Every individual and business is having to rethink how on their bikes. they work and look at the world around them.

Technology and environmental issues will take centre As places of interest reopen, schools throw open their doors and the public re-build their own lives stage and it’s important every sector adapts, again, more opportunities for our industry will including ours. become apparent.

As many learn that working from home can in some capacity be achieved, daily footfall commuting in and A safe door-to-door service will always be out of urban areas will fall. In the short-term this will required and sought-after in whatever hurt public transport, retail and the need to build ‘normal’ is established. new commercial properties.

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LOCKDOWN EASES

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

‘TEMPORARY’

ROAD CLOSURES

When EIGHTEEN months of closures means ‘TEMPORARY’ The coronavirus crisis has had a terrible impact on the lives and health of many people, as well as severe economic consequences. One long-term impact facing drivers in the taxi industry is the multitude of lengthy ‘temporary’ road closures.

Road closures and new cycle lanes are being introduced all around us on a scale never seen before. But who is leading with the idea: Government, local authorities, or the community?

In most cases it is the Government, as they are the ones handing the funds out. The new guidance brought in by the Government is additional statutory guidance issued by the Secretary of State for Transport under Section 18 of the Traffic

Management Act 2004 (“the act”). It applies to all the highway authorities in England, and all of them are expected to follow.

There will of course be some authorities more willing than others to implement the Government’s instructions as it suits their own ideas and agendas around surface transport. Local authorities with high levels of public transport have been asked to take measures to reallocate long standing road space to people walking and cycling, both to encourage ‘active travel’ and to also enable social distancing. It is however worth noting that the guidance has not changed since the Government reduced the 2-metre distancing recommendation to 1 metre plus in late June.

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LOCKDOWN EASES To access the funding to implement the changes in the Government guidance, authorities are still being urged to introduce the new measures as “swiftly as possible” due to “the urgent need to change travel habits before the restart takes full effect”.

July 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 8 planters or large barriers. Often used in residential areas, this can create neighbourhoods that are lowtraffic or traffic free.

Providing additional cycle parking facilities at key locations.

So, what do all the traffic order measures include?

Changes to junction design to accommodate more Installing ‘pop-up’ cycle facilities with a minimum cyclists; for example, extending Advanced Stop level of physical separation from volume traffic. An Lines at traffic lights to the maximum permitted example might include mandatory cycle lanes, using depth of 7.5 metres where possible. light segregation features such as flexible plastic ‘Whole-route’ approaches to create corridors for wands or quickly converting traffic lanes into buses, cycles and access only on key routes into temporary cycle lanes, suspending parking bays town and city centres. where necessary.

And finally, identifying and bringing forward Using cones and barriers to widen footways along permanent schemes already planned, for example lengths of road, particularly outside shops and under Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure transport hubs.

Plans, and that can be constructed relatively quickly.

None of these measures being handed to authorities are new. They are all part of the standard traffic management toolkit, however, Government has taken the opportunity to speed up and as they put it “step-change” their roll-out.

Encouraging walking and cycling to school, for example through the introduction of more ‘school streets’.

Given the speed of the changes, somewhat controversially, there is no consultation requirement. Opinions from those who work and live in the areas impacted by the changes will not be asked whether

Reducing speed limits. 20mph speed limits are being more widely adopted as an appropriate speed limit for residential roads, and many through streets in built-up areas.

Introducing pedestrian and cycle zones. Restricting access for motor vehicles at certain times (or at all times) to specific streets, or networks of streets, particularly town centres and high streets.

Modal filters (also known as filtered permeability); closing roads to motor traffic, for example by using

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LOCKDOWN EASES they approve of the changes being made in their communities. As a result, for a period up to 18months, regarded as ‘temporary’, local businesses and residents will have to live with the changes whether they like it or not.

If that wasn’t enough, authorities have also been asked to monitor and evaluate the temporary measures they install, with a view to making them permanent and “embedding a long-term shift to active travel as we move from restart to recovery”.

At the end of all the new guidance is one area that hasn’t been highlighted by authorities, but which is hugely important. That being that any changes they bring in must consider the access requirements for Blue Badge holders, deliveries and other essential services like the emergency services and maintenance works.

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

The public sector equality duty still applies, and in making any changes to their road networks, authorities must consider the needs of disabled people and those with other protected characteristics.

Accessibility requirements still apply to temporary measures in the same way as they do to permanent ones.

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GUEST WRITER

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

Article written by:

SUSAN HALL LONDON ASSEMBLY MEMBER

It is an understatement that transport in London is going to look very different in six months to how it looked six months ago. Currently bus and Tube capacity is around 20% of where it was in January.

Even as we move out of lockdown this seems unlikely to drastically change. Plus, even if and when the rules change, it may be a long time before commuters are comfortable travelling in the sort of close proximity that used to be the norm.

everything possible to highlight and push back against mistakes that will damage the black cab trade and damage London.

I am sure that no one reading this article needs a reminder of why black cabs are so vital to London.

They are an iconic, world-renowned service. A safe, These changes have far-reaching implications that I secure, reliable option for Londoners who need to be don’t intend to cover here. Instead I will limit my sure they will get where they need to go. Black cabs focus to what the implications for black cabs might be are vital for many less mobile Londoners, ensuring under Sadiq Khan and what they should be. As the that users can get precisely where they need to go. current Mayor makes huge changes to central For those in a wheelchair, who are often let down by London’s roads, whilst claiming those changes to be inadequate step-free access on trains or the Tube, both temporary and necessary, it is vital that we do black cabs are a Godsend.

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GUEST WRITER

July 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 11

It is clear that Sadiq Khan has failed the black cab trade. From failing to accept the concept that where buses go taxis should be able to go, to pushing drivers to switch to electric vehicles whilst failing to provide anything like enough charging points, to the scrapping of the 15-year rule and effectively abandoning drivers who had planned their careers and livelihoods around it, this Mayor has shown contempt for black cab drivers. So what should happen instead?

First it is worth looking at the opportunity for taxi drivers. With around 80% of those who used to travel in London via public transport unable to do so, there is a need to find alternatives. Some Londoners will be able to work from home, others will be able to switch to riding a bike (at least in the Summer months) and still others may travel via motorbike or electric scooter.

However, with the best will in the world, those options will not cover the gap. Black cabs should clearly have a role to play, particularly in transporting more vulnerable or less mobile Londoners and making sure that our great city doesn’t grind to a halt.

However Sadiq Khan is yet again putting obstacles in the way. His decision to close off significant parts of central London to private cars might make a certain

amount of sense, but failing to allow all taxis – whether electric or diesel – to go where buses go is an horrendous error. It means that parts of Central London become completely inaccessible to those who cannot travel by public transport or by bike. Whether this was by design or because the current Mayor doesn’t think through the consequences of his decisions is hard to say.

Either way, Sadiq Khan should immediately reverse course. He should recognise that his current policies are failing the black cab industry, failing Londoners and failing London. Until he does – or until next May when he can be replaced as Mayor – my GLA Conservative colleagues and I will continue to do all we can to highlight these failings and push him to think again.

“Sadiq Khan is yet again putting obstacles in the way” SUSAN HALL LONDON ASSEMBLY MEMBER Find TaxiPoint on social media

SEISS UPDATE

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

Image: gov.uk

SEISS

SECOND PAYMENT

Taxi drivers and other self-employed workers will be able to start making their second Self-Employed Income Support Scheme (SEISS) payment claim from 17 August.

The welcomed payment comes as self-employed workers struggle across most industries to recover from the effects of the coronavirus pandemic.

Workers eligible for the first grant had until 13 July to claim a taxable grant worth 80% of their average monthly trading profits, paid out in a single instalment covering three months’ worth of profits, and capped at £7,500 in total. Those eligible had the money paid into

their bank account within six working days of completing a claim and covering the impact of COVID19 during the months of March, April and May. Applications for the second grant will open on 17 August.

This time individuals will be able to claim a second taxable grant worth 70% of their average monthly trading profits, paid out in a single instalment covering three months’ worth of profits, and capped at £6,570 in total.

The second SEISS will only be payable if the claimant’s business has been affected

by COVID-19 from 14 July.

Currently work levels in the taxi industry remain heavily impacted when compared with pre-lockdown.

Self-employed workers are expected to receive the second payment in the same six working day turnaround as the first claim.

Image: LEVC

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TAX

July 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 14

THE TAX

PITFALLS OF LEAVING THE

TAXI TRADE During these uncertain times, some cabbies have decided to hang up their cab keys either on a temporary or full-time basis. Whether it is to start a new career or pursue one that they were already involved in, these options may seem more viable now.

“If your plan is to take early Image: Jason Short, SAS Accountants retirement and live off savings until pension kicks in, this information could make a significant difference. Usually, this wouldn't happen because of buying another vehicle. Obviously, if you do happen to be selling something for £30,000, the tax numbers become quite large!”

There are however some pitfalls, especially around tax, that accountants are warning cabbies they should be Jason added: “Someone I spoke to was wishing mindful of.

to sell their vehicle and work somewhere else until next year. This is all ok, but this may trigger the high tax bill outlined above, and then end up buying another vehicle next year, which doesn't help you claiming tax back that you incurred this “If you own your vehicle, you will notice that it gets year. In this instance, if you were to sell a depreciated every year by your Accountant. written off cab in the accounts for £30,000, it Depending on how much depreciation has been used in your Accounts can have a significant effect would incur an £8,700 tax bill at 29%. If then a on tax. For example, I own a TX4, which I know has vehicle is bought for £45k next year, the £8700 been entirely written off in my accounts. If I were to would still need to be settled!”

One such risk is selling business assets such as your taxi to raise cash. Jason Short, a taxi driver and accountant at Short and Sons Accountants, highlighted the risk to cabbies saying:

sell it today for £10,000, technically it would all be profit because I have claimed the write down in prior years. At 20% tax and 9%, national insurance that's a £2,900 tax bill that will need to be paid on top of SEISS payments received and any other income.

It is also worth noting that the figures above are assuming basic rate tax, if you happen to be PAYE or receive income from elsewhere with the higher rate tax of 40% and 2% NI, the above example is even more painful.

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Charity

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

LEGAL

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

LEGAL VIEW: WHEELCHAIRS

AND GUIDE DOGS DURING COVID-19

Article written by:

Stephen McCaffrey The current pandemic and social distancing restrictions does not absolve licensed drivers from their duties under the Equality Act. The same duties and responsibilities that applied prior to the pandemic continues to apply today including duty to provide reasonable assistance to people with disabilities, duty to carry assistance dogs and ensuring you are not discriminating against any person through for example imposing additional charges etc.

Clearly complying with social distancing rules is impossible under these circumstances particularly where you provide assistance to, for example, a wheelchair user or elderly passenger. Certain offences under the Equality Act does not make provision for “reasonable excuse” and so licensed drivers must exercise caution to ensure they comply with the statutory equality duties.

Passengers in wheelchairs Under s. 165 of the Equality Act, the driver of a “designated” taxi is under duty to do the following: •

to carry the passenger while in the wheelchair;

•

not to make any additional charge for doing so;

•

if the passenger chooses to sit in a passenger seat, to carry the wheelchair;

•

to take such steps as are necessary to ensure that the passenger is carried in safety and reasonable comfort;

•

to give the passenger such mobility assistance as is reasonably required.

“Mobility assistance” is defined under subsection 5 as: •

In this article I want to look at the statutory equality • duties that are placed on hackney carriage (taxi) and PHV drivers and whether social distancing measures can be a reasonable excuse for not complying with • these duties.

to enable the passenger to get into or out of the vehicle; if the passenger wishes to remain in the wheelchair, to enable the passenger to get into and out of the vehicle while in the wheelchair; to load the passenger’s luggage into or out of the vehicle;

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LEGAL •

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

if the passenger does not wish to remain in the wheelchair, to load the wheelchair into or out of the vehicle.

Under subsection 7 it is an offence for a hackney carriage driver to not comply with the duties above.

Of note however, subsection 9 makes provision for “a defence for a person charged… to show that at the time of the alleged offence:

Assistance dogs in taxis and PHVs Unlike assistance with wheelchair users, there is no similar defence for offences for not allowing assistance dogs or imposing an additional charge.

Under section 168 & 170 of the Equality Act, the driver of a taxi or PHV which has been hired •

•

the vehicle conformed to the accessibility requirements which applied to it, but

•

• it would not have been possible for the wheelchair to be carried safely in the vehicle.”

by or for a disabled person who is accompanied by an assistance dog, or by another person who wishes to be accompanied by a disabled person with an assistance dog

There is no authoritative case law on the scope of a defence under subsection (b) i.e. it would not have must been possible for the wheelchair to be carried safely • carry the disabled person’s dog and allow it to in the vehicle. remain with that person; Under certain circumstance, it is feasible to advance • not make any additional charge for doing so. an argument that COVID-19 and/or social distancing The driver of a taxi or PHV commits an offence by rules could satisfy the defence provisions. failing to comply with this duty.

For example, a passenger displaying symptoms or This section is particularly difficult for licensed refusing to wear a mask in your hackney carriage drivers because, the circumstances above that might could be reasonable defence. lead a driver to take a caution approach to carrying a Each case will ultimately turn on its own passenger (i.e. a passenger displaying symptoms or circumstances and merits. The point here is that refusing to wear a mask) might also be relevant to a there is a defence for drivers charged with an passenger with an assistance dog. However, there is offence. no provision for a defence under sections 168 or 170.

There is also no authoritative case law on the scope of offences under these sections so there is no guidance on the likelihood of successful prosecutions in the context of COVID-19.

To read more from Stephen McCaffrey visit: www.taxidefencebarristers.co.uk

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POST-COVID

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

SUPER SATURDAY 175% INCREASE IN LONDON CARD PAYMENTS COMPARED TO PREVIOUS WEEK Card payment data from ‘Super Saturday’ showed a 175% increase in the number of payments taken in taxis compared to the previous Saturday.

Released by taxi payment solution provider Cabvision, the data shows the continued steady growth of card payment volumes in London since lockdown started.

In other data provided by taxi industry sources, Fridays have historically been the busiest day each week. However, according to Cabvision, Super Saturday’s card payment volumes were 22% higher than Friday 3 June.

Colts Cabs, one of London’s biggest licensed black taxi rental firms, has posted daily figures on the number of transactions completed via card payment terminals since more cabbies started returning to work in May.

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POST-COVID

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

Whilst the number of transactions remains just a fraction of the number compared to pre-COVID-19 working levels, their data highlights the steady increase, especially during weekdays, which has given some drivers hope within the industry.

A Cabvision spokesperson said via social media: “Highest number of customers out this weekend since lockdown. Jobs per customer improved as well, so hopefully it was a better night for most.�

However, as lockdown measures ease, the volume of taxi drivers increases too. Drivers working may not see an increase to their own individual work levels until the number of drivers returning also levels out.

The data supplied by Colts Cabs focuses on one of the four debit card transaction firms within the taxi industry. The data does not take into account work levels on the three other card payment providers, taxi apps, handheld payment units, radio circuits and cash work.

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NORTHERN IRELAND

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

FRUSTRATED TAXI DRIVERS IN NORTHERN IRELAND DEMAND HELP Since the coronavirus hit Northern Ireland and forced it into lockdown, taxi drivers have been asking their Government officials for clear guidance and financial support to help them survive the sharp downturn in work.

In the first week of June, taxi drivers gathered to protest in Belfast. The demonstration left Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon facing questions from many frustrated cabbies outside Stormont’s Parliament Buildings.

In addition to financial support, taxi drivers have been seeking advice and guidance that would assist the industry during the easing of COVID-19 lockdown.

Karl said: “We need advice on safe practice for protection of both drivers and passengers.

Government could also advise the public that taxis are safe to use because you are not travelling with strangers. Taxi drivers take steps to sanitise their vehicles after each journey.”

Karl continued: “Taxi drivers in Northern Ireland are Karl Black, a Private Hire driver and member of the resilient people and because Northern Ireland is so Taxi Drivers Matter Group attending the protest, said: rural, drivers will continue to struggle on, but don't “As an industry the Northern Ireland assembly get me wrong, some drivers have already gone to haven't provided us with any advice on PPE, screens, other jobs like delivering for Amazon or working in social distancing and that is what we have been supermarkets. One of the largest taxi companies in calling for!

Northern Ireland have reportedly lost up to 50% of their drivers because of shielding or drivers having to “When we protested at Stormont Nichola Mallon quit.” wouldn't get into the back of a taxi because of social distancing.

Whilst cabbies in Northern Ireland are concerned for their futures, there remains hope that during these “Many taxi drivers have failed to qualify for uncertain times, things will change soon. Karl said: government support so we've asked for a package to “Drivers are concerned about the future and that of help drivers cover their bills. We understand other their families. Things will get better, but when? No sole traders are in the same boat and they too should one knows.” be looked after as well.”

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LICENSING

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

More than 9 in 10 private hire drivers are urging local authorities to suspend pending air quality requirements following the effects of COVID-19 on the industry.

concerns about the high cost of the equipment and the control of data captured.

Steve Wright, Chairman of Licensed Private Hire Car Association (LPHCA), said: “The pandemic has been catastrophic for those who have lost loved ones or those who have contracted or been impacted indirectly by the COVID-19 virus, on a personal / family level. Beyond that there are many whose working lives will never be the same.

In a recent members survey conducted by the Licensed Private Hire Car Association (LPHCA), 90.9% supported the idea to suspend future plans around air quality and moves towards greener vehicles until after “Whilst some modes of transport have had high level support from government, the door-to-door taxi and the coronavirus outbreak. private hire sector, at times all but seems to have Like the taxi trade, the private hire industry has faced been forgotten. a sharp decrease in work volumes since lockdown measures were announced in March. Feedback from “Two controversial pre-pandemic subjects, CCTV and Air Quality requirements were in some cases being the survey published in Private Hire News showed mandated at different levels in different stages by drivers facing concerns around higher vehicle costs, governments and licensing authorities throughout the lack of current income and insufficient choice of UK. vehicles.

The in-depth LPHCA survey also touched on another hot industry topic; CCTV. Nearly three quarters of those surveyed thought regulatory authorities should suspend all pending CCTV requirements. Members of the association were unsure about the mandatory need for the in-vehicle cameras. There were also

“Sensible authorities are now reviewing both, what is really needed as well as practical, they have also put on hold inflicting massive costs when the trade is on its knees. The LPHCA members survey clearly outlines the need to suspend such projects, then conduct a review and re-assessment post COVID-19.”

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Image: LEVC

JUST FOR FUN

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

FUNNY

YOU SHOULD ASK… Friends, family, even passengers, often want to know if you’ve had any particularly memorable trips you will never forget. I’ve been a London taxi driver for nearly nine years and have a few stories to tell, some good, some bad and some downright funny.

I thought why not share one of those with you this month, during a period when there’s not been much to laugh about. So here it is…

Now this happened around five years ago during a blistering hot summer’s day. As most big city cab drivers would know, the traffic can become relentless and unbearable at times, let alone when the sun is baking and the air-con isn’t working.

So there I am sitting in bumper to bumper traffic with a fare onboard. Window down, working on my cab-driver tan on one arm, when I look to the right and see a man enjoying a beer or two plonked up at the bottom of a small clock tower around the corner from Angel Islington Station – London cabbies will know it.

Now unfortunately for this man it was clear that he had a very serious drinking problem, but nevertheless he was still enjoying the sun, relaxing

Article written by: Michael Murphy

back with his top off.

Looking over at me, we caught eyes and he raised his can at me “cheers”. As the polite cabbie I am, I raised my Red Bull (sugar free) back at him – we had a moment (whatever that means).

It was then that a member of the public approached the heavily intoxicated sunbather and started shouting at him: “What do you think you are doing?

Who do you think you are sitting here like this?” I have to say it left me pretty shocked.

Another man, this one pushing a young child in a buggy also approached and teamed up against the man, calling him “shameful and a disgrace”.

I had to poke my nose in, not literally, and ask the two men to back-off: “Why you guys having such a go at the man? He’s just sitting there bothering no one, enjoying himself.” To say these two men shot me a look of utter disbelief is an understatement.

The two men continued moaning, but this time also at me. This had fast become a two vs. two battle tag team style, one of London’s finest and a drunk

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JUST FOR FUN

July 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 23

against two guys from North London. It was on!

The arguing went back and forward, and the drunk and myself even raised our cans again to one another mid argument.

One of the men then took things what I considered a little too far, and called the police.

And like a scene from blind date, the true horror of what was behind the screen became clearer inch by inch.

It was now that it was ALL revealed to me… The drunk who I had argued on the side of, the man I had said was just enjoying himself, the man I stuck up for with all my passion… was butt naked.

Shaking my head in disbelief, at that moment in time I felt disappointed with my fellow man. Calling Yes, that’s correct. Absolutely naked. Legs akimbo the police on a man who’s just relaxing, was a no-go with every single thing on show. He was getting an all-over suntan and I was encouraging him. zone – and I let him know.

I wanted the earth to suck me up. I took one look in As the traffic began to slowly move, I called out to my rear-view mirror to catch my passenger sitting the man one last time “you carry on enjoying yourself, no harm done” while raising my can for a there gobsmacked. He was probably taking his first ever taxi, being driven by someone who openly final “cheers”. encouraged butt naked drinking in the middle of It was only then, as the cab was rolling forward, that one of the busiest junctions in one of the busiest I realised that one of those green cities in the world. telecommunication boxes was between me and the And that my friends, is one taxi trip that I clock tower, obscuring my view. You know one of those boxes you see a technician fiddling with wires will never forget. whilst exposing his ‘builder’s bum’? Yeah, one of those.

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FEATURE

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

IRRITATIONS THE TOP TEN WAYS TO IRRITATE A TAXI DRIVER Every job has its challenges, but in a public customer facing role the chances are that taxi drivers have to deal with more irritations than most.

Whilst customers were, and still are, few and far between during the COVID-19 period, cabbies generally deal with all sorts of passengers. From the very young to the very drunk. Some of their annoying habits can be quickly forgotten, while others require drivers to have the patience of a saint.

According to The Taxi Insurer, here are TEN of the most irritating things that passengers do in taxis.

Demanding a detour on a fixed price journey So you’ve agreed a fixed price for the trip from their house to the airport – but suddenly, they insist on going via a cashpoint or even to pick up another passenger.

Pretty irritating behaviour, but sadly all too common for taxi passengers, some of whom seem to think you’ve got nothing else to do all day but act as their cut price personal chauffeur.

after all, you’ve got other fares waiting.

And you know that if the tables were turned and it was you who were late, they’d be outraged!

Fail to keep kids under control

Keep you waiting Some passengers’ attitude to timekeeping can most charitably be described as relaxed.

If they’ve booked you for midday, you want them to be ready by midday, not quarter or even half past –

Taxis are often used by groups or families off out for the day, so it’s understandable that many passengers are young and excited. However, it should be up to the adults accompanying them to keep order in the back.

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FEATURE

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

Not only is rowdy behaviour from small passengers annoying for the driver, it’s potentially a dangerous distraction too.

Create a mess

And road laws are there for a reason: to keep drivers, passengers, other road users and pedestrians safe.

Nobody’s above them, and certainly not a passenger who really should just have booked an earlier ride.

Kebab wrappers. Worse – half-eaten kebabs. Even worse – regurgitated kebabs. As a taxi driver, you’re likely to have had all the above, and much more, deposited on the floor and passenger seats of your vehicle.

Mess can be merely an inconvenience, or it can create unpleasant smells that you need to tolerate throughout your shift – or it can even cost you the price of valeting and lost business. Whatever the consequences, it’s definitely one of the major downsides of taxi driving.

Damage your vehicle This is less common than mess, but definitely not unknown. Some passengers have absolutely no respect for the fact that your taxi is your livelihood.

Would they kick the seats and tear the upholstery in their own car? Yank the door handles too hard?

Smash their luggage into the doors and windows?

Unlikely – so nor should they in yours.

Fail to tip If you’re taxiing elderly people to hospital, you may understand that they need to keep costs down. But if you’re driving a car full of revellers home from a drunken night out, it’s hard to believe that they really can’t club together to find the cash for a tip.

Many people don’t realise that taxi driving is an expensive business. And if you’ve provided a smooth service or gone out of your way to help them, perhaps by loading heavy luggage, then some might seem it only fair to expect something extra for your hard work.

Of course, you have to expect a certain amount of wear and tear to your vehicle – you’ll be using it a lot.

But there are occasional passengers who cause damage through their carelessness, which can be Your taxi is not a tardis. Ask at the time of booking pretty upsetting for drivers. Make sure you have taxi how much baggage they’re bringing, and make your insurance that covers such eventualities. vehicle’s limits clear. Remember that wheelchairs take priority, as you’re both morally and legally obliged to carry them.

Bring too much luggage

Ask you to break the law

Your passengers want you to do a u-turn? Speed up, although the limit’s 30? Jump a red light? Ignore them as best you can.

Not only do you risk a fine and points on your driving licence if you break driving laws, you could lose your taxi licence and therefore your livelihood too.

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FEATURE

July 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 27

Expect change for a fifty

Be rude

As a taxi driver, you’re only too aware of the risks of carrying large sums of money around with you. But that doesn’t stop some passengers from wanting to pay a very small fare with a very big note, and being surprised when you don’t have £45 in change.

They refuse to greet you when they enter your cab, and give you curt orders. They think they know a better route. They’re loud, rowdy or argumentative.

Fortunately, these days there are lots of ways you can accept electronic payments and keep the atmosphere cordial between you and your passengers.

All taxi drivers are used to putting up with impolite or unpleasant passengers from time to time. You can probably just ignore most of their rudeness.

But if they make racist or any other hateful remarks to you, that’s not just annoying, but downright unacceptable and potentially illegal.

And if they make threats, then call for help straight away.

Article provided by:

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TAXIS YOU DRIVE

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

Image credit: Cab Direct

FORD PROCAB Most people in the UK and around the world have an image in their minds of what a UK taxi looks like. The reputation of the service and recognition of the vehicles is paramount to drivers receiving street work and having presence where they ply for hire.

Each month we will be focusing on one of the taxis used around the British Isles to learn more and see

how it compares to the taxi you are currently driving.

This month focusses on the highly popular Ford ProCab. The latest generation hackney taxi has been designed and manufactured jointly by Ford and Cab Direct. Built on Ford’s Tourneo Custom chassis, ProCab™ provides an interior with a wealth of equipment, space and the latest safety technology to complete a great hackney taxi for both the driver and passengers. With its six-seat rear compartment and the option of a double seat up front, ProCab™ can comfortably accommodate up to eight passengers.

According to Cab Direct, the ProCab™ promises a smooth and consistent journey for all on board, whether that’s one passenger traveling alone or a full complement with bags of luggage.

Image credit: Cab Direct

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TAXIS YOU DRIVE

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

Features like cruise control, Hill Start Assist and Traffic integrated wheelchair access ramp for passengers is Sign Recognition will all aid the cabbie during his or also located in the compartment floor. High-visibility her working day. The new generation taxi is also 13 grab handles and seat patches, together with per cent more efficient than its predecessor, returning an impressive 44.8mpg on the combined cycle. Power isn’t lost either as it offers 20 per cent more torque for maximum power and responsiveness.

With its bold new grille, full body coloured exterior, specially designed spoiler, ten-spoke alloy wheels and a new taxi graphics kit, ProCab™ is easily recognisable as a taxi in whatever UK city it is plying in.

The ProCab™ comes with multiple features included as standard, such as the 8” colour TFT touchscreen with satellite navigation, voice activated connectivity, rain sensing wipers, heated front seats, automatic headlights and front and rear parking sensors combine to provide an enhanced driving experience. In addition, independent front and rear heating air conditioning systems, ideal during the challenging COVID-19 pandemic, allow both you and your passengers to set the ideal temperature.

Image credit: Cab Direct

illuminated, electric side-steps on both sides and floor edging also assist passenger entry and exit. A hearing induction loop is included for the hard of hearing too.

With prices starting at £36,495, it’s not hard to see why this vehicle has become popular With a huge 1,180 litre boot, the ProCab™ can handle amongst taxi drivers. the most luggage laden of passengers with ease. An

THE

VIRTUAL PROCAB

To show the flexibility of the ProCab™, how’s this for a unique taxi?

Mark Bates, a cabbie from Swindon, came up with an ingenious idea: The Virtual Taxi. One of the vehicles available to customers to book includes Wi -Fi, a Playstation with virtual reality and Netflix to make their journey fly by.

Mark says: “Our taxis are perfect for anybody who wants a more entertaining journey to their destination.”

www.virtualtaxi.com Images: thevirtualtaxi.com

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VEHICLES

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

NEW

Image credit: LEVC

SAFE CITY LEVC CAMPAIGN As UK cities begin to emerge from lockdown, travelling safely is of paramount importance and LEVC, manufacturer of the iconic black cab, has launched a new campaign to raise awareness of how licensed black taxis can help keep the public protected.

The taxi driver 5-point pledge includes: 1. I will never work if I or any of my household have symptoms 2. I will clean my taxi after every journey, and at the end of my shift

The new ‘Black Cab: Private Public Transport’ initiative 3. I will wear a mask when it is necessary for me to highlights how passengers can always stay socially do so distanced, in a personal and contactless space by choosing to travel in a licensed black taxi.

4. I will encourage passengers to pay by card where possible These taxis are equipped with a purpose-built partition that separates the driver and passenger compartment, contactless payment in the rear, easy to clean surfaces and an intercom system that allows driver and passenger to always communicate clearly, without the need to do so ‘face-to-face’.

5. I will not allow passengers to sit on the seats closest to the driver, to maintain a safe distance.

LEVC is also supporting cabbies to get back behind the wheel with 2,000 ‘Back to Work’ kits available for collection free of charge from LEVC’s authorised A 5-point pledge covering social distance guidance and dealer network. These provide protective PPE and regular cleaning regimes has also been developed to cleaning equipment, designed to keep occupants safe provide all passengers with reassurance of the and vehicles clean. professionalism and high standards of licensed black Each kit includes 250ml sanitising gel, 750ml antiviral cab drivers. disinfectant spray, 40 disposable face masks, microfibre reusable cloths, anti-bacterial taxi-receipts and a 5-point pledge window sign.

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EV

July 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 31

UK RANKS 10TH IN MOST EXPENSIVE EV CHARGING LEAGUE The cost of charging electric vehicles around the world has been revealed, with the UK coming 10th in a list of 50 countries ranked from most to the least expensive according to new research from Uswitch.com, the comparison and switching service.

To calculate the results, the research looked at the cost per KWh for 50 different countries, the average mileage per driver and miles per full charge, revealing the most expensive country to charge an EV is Denmark, followed

by Germany and Belgium.

The table shows the top 10 countries by EV charging cost, giving the annual cost per vehicle associated with travelling 10,000 miles: Table: www.uswitch.com Image: LEVC

Image: LEVC

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VEHICLES

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

WHY ARE BLACK CABS

BLACK?

The iconic black taxi is synonymous with the yellow cabs of New York as the most recognisable cabs in the world. With around 19,000 taxis registered in the capital, and many more throughout the UK, just when and why did the black colour become iconic?

It all dates back to 1948 when the FX3 was first released by Carbodies in Coventry and became the

first classically shaped taxi with an orange ‘for hire’ light on its roof.

For fleet owners at the time, often buying multiple vehicles at once, they wanted to keep costs as low as possible. Black was the standard and cheapest colour for the taxis produced at the time, so a large majority of FX3s on the capital’s roads were simply left to ply for hire in the standard factory black.

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TAXIPOINT

July 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 33

HERE THERE

EVERYWHERE TaxiPoint is proud to have led the way in responsible and vital taxi industry information during the COVID19 pandemic.

since lockdown was announced on 23 March. Over 89,000 of those readers have accessed our news on multiple occasions.

As part of the new normal, away from paper copies, our digital news service has been the source of information to no less than 368,000 different readers

Thank you to our readers, advertisers and content contributors over this period. We are all better connected together in the months ahead.

368,000+

DIFFERENT READERS SINCE LOCKDOWN BEGAN

89,000+

DIFFERENT RETURNING READERS SINCE LOCKDOWN BEGAN

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VEHICLES

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

WHAT THE TAXIS OF TODAY WERE SUPPOSED TO LOOK LIKE Image credit: Mazda

Taxis are an essential part of the transportation system in most major cities around the world and are constantly evolving to meet the ever-changing needs of the growing public.

With an array of different purpose-built taxi vehicles amongst the world’s fleets, you’d be forgiven if you’ve ever felt charmed by the unique shapes and colour combinations symbolic to their cities.

of the taxi. The taxi would come with its very own translation system to assist communication between driver and passengers of different languages. A cashless payment system was also included in the design, and let’s face it, that’s the only element of this design that we see today in taxi cabs around the world.

With technology moving at a rapid pace and so many vehicle designers trying to come out with the latest ‘stand-out’ taxi vehicle, a week barely passes now without seeing the so-called “taxi of the future”. But will many, if any, ever make it to our streets?

Let’s go back to the future and take a look at some of the crazy, weird and not so wonderful prototypes that were being pushed as the next best thing in taxi vehicle design over 10 years ago and see if any actually made it as far as ‘public hire’ as suggested back then.

The Mazda Taxi Designed by Ernesto Rodriquez, this futuristic taxi for automaker Mazda featured an unusual seating layout, placing the driver in their own cockpit while the passengers would be seated diagonally facing the side

Image credit: Mazda

The Minimodal by Hybrid This strange two-person design was the brainchild of Russell Robertson and Jeanne Pfordresher, who investigated the design of the New York City taxi as an international icon. From that they created a strategy to present 3 purpose-built concept vehicles to the Taxi

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VEHICLES

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

Limousine Company (TLC) and the Design Trust for Public Space.

concept but has never made it to public roads as of yet, ten years on.

The Naro taxi The Naro Taxi concept was designed by prodrive, who are known for their success in the motorsport world.

Image credit: Minimodal

The Minimodal was a vehicle built low to the ground and featured side windows and a fully open skylight.

The driver would sit in front of an all glass front end and on top of the hybrid engine. The taxi would also have a signalling system that would inform other road users when a passenger was exiting the vehicle.

The small four-wheeled design had the width of a motorcycle and space for one taxi passenger in its enclosed body shell. The idea being that most people travel in taxis solo, so the vehicle was designed for 1person usage to reduce its road space. The design was tested, with the hopes of having it on the streets “in the near future�. I think I can confidently say, ten years later, the Naro Taxi has never been licensed and used as a public taxi.

Image credit: Naro

The two other designs, one being the Maximodal which seated 3, and the Mogulmodal which seated 4, plus a wheelchair, were of the same design, just a larger size.

The designs were presented to the public in 2005 and were said to receive great reviews. Roll on to 2020 and the vehicle is nowhere to be seen.

The mx-libris taxi This boxy looking taxi was designed by Alberto Villarreal, created for use in Latin America. The vehicle was intended to be a zeroemission taxi with an iconic urban-style form. The design Image credit: mx-libris used fuel cells and a drive-by -wire steering system to optimise the interior space of the taxi. The cabin area was designed asymmetrical to promote interaction between passengers sitting in the bank of three seats at the back and one facing the rear.

The design won a Red Dot award for its imaginative

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Image credit: mx-libris

FUEL

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

PUMP PRICES

RISING After three months of falling pump prices in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, the average cost of fuel shot up in June with a litre of unleaded increasing by nearly 4p from 107.11p to 110.85p (3.74p), new RAC Fuel Watch data reveals.

111.8p on 19 May. This was brought about by Asda, Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Morrisons all selling petrol for an average of £1 a litre from mid-May to the end of the month. Diesel's average low at the supermarkets was 105.5p over the same period.

RAC fuel spokesman Simon Williams said: “The pump price rises witnessed in June will have been a Diesel rose by just under 3p a litre (2.89p) from nasty shock to the system for drivers. While those 112.07p to 114.96p as the price of oil strengthened who continued to drive regularly throughout the by more than $6 from $35.48 to $41.87. The pandemic will have benefited from some very low forecourt rises mean a 55-litre tank of petrol has prices, millions won’t have so will be disappointed gone up by £2 to £60.97 (from £58.91 at the start of that just as they start to drive more again prices are June) and the diesel equivalent by £1.59 to £63.23 on the up. It is, of course, the lack of demand for (£61.64 at the start of June). fuel which caused prices to drop in the first place so sadly it’s no great surprise that they’re on the rise These prices have come as a blow to drivers who have got used to seeing some unusually low pump again now. prices.

“But drivers should take quite a lot of comfort from The global coronavirus travel restrictions led to oil the fact that both petrol and diesel are a whopping 17p a litre cheaper than they were at the end of crashing to $13.21 a barrel in late April which in January. That means a tank of fuel is on average £9 turn caused the price of a litre of petrol to come less than it was then.” down to an average low of 106.48p and diesel to

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GLOBAL NEWS

July 2020 | www.taxi-point.co.uk | 38

AROUND THE WORLD AUSTRALIA Employees across Australia who have been allowing their staff to use ridehailing firms such as Uber, rather than traditional licensed taxis, will now be able to get tax benefits under new laws passed by Federal Parliament.

Image: DiDi

CHINA Ride-hailing giant DiDi Chuxing has said that it aims to operate more than 1 million self-driving vehicles through its platform by the year 2030.

DiDi has been working on autonomous vehicles with the desire of running a robotaxi fleet in areas which have a shortage of ride-hailing cars.

The company recently announced the completion of a £400+ million fundraising round for its autonomous driving unit, which was led by SoftBank Group’s Vision Fund 2.

Previously the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) had said that while ride-sharing drivers have to register for and pay GST like the taxi industry, ride-sharing is not a “taxi” for the purpose of fringe benefits tax (FBT) exemptions.

Following years of lobbying by firms like Uber, the definition of “taxi” was adapted allowing for Parliament to amend the Fringe Benefits Assessment Act 1986 to include such travel options.

INDIA Taxi drivers in Kalcutta have said that they will stop offering their services from 14 July if demands for increased fares are not met.

Taxi operators in the city have made the decision after a meeting of taxi unions with the officials of the state transport department. The three taxi unions, Bengal Taxi Association, Calcutta Taxi Association and West Bengal Drivers Welfare Association are demanding a minimum fare increase from 30 rupees to 50 rupees.

The demand comes after a hike in fuel prices.

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GLOBAL NEWS

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

SINGAPORE

JAPAN

Ride-sharing firm, Grab, has announced the lay-off of 5% of its workforce due to the impact COVID-19 has had on its business.

Uber Technologies launched a ride-sharing app in Tokyo in partnership with three domestic taxi firms.

The Singapore-based app said it was letting go of 360 employees and was also winding down a number of non-core projects and functions.

GERMANY

Uber has not been allowed to run its own independent ridehailing service in Japan as it does in many other countries around the world since local regulations ban non-professional drivers from ferrying paying customers.

The new app connects app users to taxis run by Hinomaru Limousine, Tokyo MK Corp and Ecosystem in the Japanese capital.

Both traditional taxis and Uber are unhappy with proposals to changes in taxi and private hire vehicle hire laws.

New proposals would see Uber given more opportunities to open up bases in busier cities allowing for quicker turn-around times between fares.

Currently the law states that private hire vehicles such as Uber, must return to base in-between each job and must not pick up another passenger until they have done so. A law Uber want to change.

The proposals have not been welcomed by Uber or traditional taxi drivers. What was supposed to be a compromise has instead faced a backlash, with the Federal taxi association threatening to protest in the thousands, causing major gridlock in cities all around the country.

HUNGARY AImotive, the artificial intelligence automated driving technology company, announced a new investment round of just over ÂŁ16 million led by Lead Ventures, a Budapest based scaleup investor.

Spain

With the fresh capital, AImotive has become the largest VC-backed company in Europe for developing automated driving technology, A Spanish taxi driver who had with a total of ÂŁ60 million. repeatedly transported coronavirus patients to a Madrid hospital for free, AImotive have said they will now continue received surprise standing ovation with theirainternational expansion byby opening staff atin the hospitalGermany, for his kind offices Munich, andactions.

Detriot, MI, In addition to the heart-warming USA. gesture, the driver was handed an envelope containing cash for his wonderful contribution during the COVID-19 pandemic.

USA A taxi passenger was fatally shot in the head while sitting in the backseat of the vehicle in the Bronx.

Tyron Mitchell-Almodovar, 20, was in the livery cab near the corner of E. 163rd St. and Tinton Avenue. in Foxhurst on 26 June when a white BMW pulled up and its occupants started shouting at the victim.

The suspect then pulled out a gun and started firing, hitting Mitchell-Almodovar in the head. The victim died four days later in hospital from his wounds.

Image: LEVC

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GLOBAL NEWS

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

AMAZON ENTERS RIDE-HAILING MARKET BUYING TECH FIRM ZOOX Amazon and Zoox have announced that they’ve signed an agreement for Amazon to acquire Zoox.

hailing, along with an end-to-end autonomy software stack.

Zoox is described as a team that is working to pioneer the future of ride-hailing by designing autonomous technology from the ground up, with passengers frontof-mind.

Zoox's ground-up vehicle focuses on the ride-hailing customer, with tightly integrated features, which they say is designed to provide a “revolutionary” passenger experience.

Aicha Evans, Zoox CEO, and Jesse Levinson, Zoox cofounder and CTO, will continue to lead Zoox as a standalone business as they innovate and drive towards their mission.

A spokesperson for Zoox said the company’s approach to invention provides flexibility and the means to iterate rapidly to continuously deliver a superior experience for customers.

Zoox started in 2014 with the vision of purpose-built, Completion of this transaction is subject to customary zero-emissions vehicles designed for autonomous ride- closing conditions.

Spain A Spanish taxi driver who had repeatedly transported coronavirus patients to a Madrid hospital for free, received a surprise standing ovation by staff at the hospital for his kind actions.

In addition to the heart-warming gesture, the driver was handed an envelope containing cash for his wonderful contribution during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Image: LEVC

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ACCOUNTANTS

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INSURANCE

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FINANCE

Compare cheap taxi insurance quotes to find the best deal on your next private or public hire policy.

Get your quote by clicking here. #insurance #taxiinsurance Ethos source and fund a wide range of vehicles for Taxi, LEVC & PCO companies across the UK. If you drive, own or operate Taxis, LEVC or PCO vehicles, you can rely on our expert team for sound advice on funding, bespoke finance agreements and competitive interest rates.

At mymoneycomparision.com, we have a proven track record of working with taxi insurance specialists. We help you source and compare cheap taxi insurance cover, which suits your business needs.

Get your quote by visiting: www.mymoneycomparison.com/taxi-insurance

Find out more here.

CARD PAYMENTS

Cabvision—The easy way to take card payments CabPay is a Mobile Point of Sale (POS) payment system from Cabvision

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BUY, RENT OR REPAIR A TAXI CAB DIRECT Driving for perfection Trust the UK’s leading taxi sales specialist. With more than 20 years experience in the hackney and private hire industry, shop direct to find your perfect new or used taxi for sale.

Visit cabdirect.com for all the latest offers - Click here!

ELITE TAXI GARAGE

Black cab rentals Repairs Bodywork Gearbox specialist CALL: 020 8498 1910 Hainault Business Park, Hainault, IG6 3UJ Or visit: www.elitetaxigarage.co.uk

TX VISTA from ÂŁ183 per week Weekly equivalent based on 5 year PCP paid monthly via direct debit.

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MEMBERSHIP

APPS

More jobs every shift with your Black Cab app. Join over 17,500 licensed UK taxi drivers already using the app.

For more information CLICK HERE

Join Gett!

0% commission in your first month!

Sign up today by clicking here or pop into the Gett Driver Office at 162 Farringdon Road.

The LTDA retains experienced barristers with specialised knowledge of the London cab trade.

Click here for more information or call: 020 7286 1046

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EV Chargers

Emissions Systems HJS HJS are Europe's leading manufacturers of emission reduction systems for commercial vehicles. Retrofit your taxi to meet EURO VI standards.

For more information visit the website by clicking here or phone 01344 566050.

HORIZON SYSTEMS LTD

LEGAL

Horizon Systems Ltd supply and install OLEV home electric vehicle charging points across London, Essex and Kent.

Visit www.easyevcharge.uk or call 0800 13 13 057 to find out more.

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Charity

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