Read the latest news from TaxiPlus
Read on to find the latest news, updates and changes surrounding the private hire industry and TaxiPlus! If you’re looking for something specific, try our smart search below.
Why Cross-Border Licensing Still Dominates Industry Concerns
ccording to the 2024 National Taxi and Private Hire Driver Survey, cross-border licensing is the most pressing issue facing the trade — with over a quarter of drivers naming it as their number one concern. In this blog, we look at why the current system is causing frustration, what the data reveals about regional variation, and how the industry can move toward a fairer, more consistent approach.
Are Taxi and Private Hire Drivers Being Left Behind in the UK’s EV Transition?
While the government promotes electric vehicles as the future of transport, many taxi and private hire drivers are being left behind. Our latest blog unpacks the findings from the 2024 National Driver Survey, highlighting the real-world barriers drivers face — from charging infrastructure and vehicle costs to inconsistent local licensing rules.
New campaign hopes to bring taxi and PH licensing back under local control.
Taxi licensing reform is back in the spotlight. Greater Manchester’s mayor has launched a new campaign pushing for local control — and national voices are beginning to back him. This article breaks down why cross-border licensing is a problem, and what’s needed to fix it.
Flying Taxis in the UK: What’s Changing Under the New Government — and What’s Still in the Way
The UK’s flying taxi industry just got a fresh boost from government investment — but despite exciting headlines, commercial take-off is still some way off. This article explores the current state of play, the infrastructure challenges ahead, and what all this means for the future of everyday transport.
The Cost of Living: The Least and Most Expensive Places to be a Driver
With fuel, insurance, and maintenance costs rising, being a taxi or private hire driver is becoming more expensive than ever. But where in the UK do drivers spend the most just to stay on the road? Using data from the 2024 National Taxi & Private Hire Driver Survey, we’ve broken down the most and least expensive regions to work in as a driver.
The Best (and Worst) Places to be a Taxi Driver in the UK
Where in the UK do taxi and private hire drivers have the best working conditions—and where is it the toughest?
Using data from the 2024 National Taxi & Private Hire Driver Survey, we’ve ranked every region based on earnings, costs, and passenger behaviour. Is your area one of the best places to be a driver, or does it rank among the worst?
The Industry is Struggling: Why Over 40% of Taxi and Private Hire Drivers Say It's No Longer Worthwhile
More than 40% of UK taxi and private hire drivers believe the profession is no longer worthwhile, according to the 2024 National Taxi & Private Hire Driver Survey. With rising costs, increased competition, and mounting stress, many drivers feel the industry is at a breaking point. Read the full article to explore why so many drivers feel the job is no longer worth it.
National Taxi & Private Hire Driver Survey 2024 Report Launched
The first-ever National Taxi & Private Hire Driver Survey has officially launched, bringing together insights from over 1,400 drivers across the UK. Conducted by TaxiPlus in partnership with TaxiPoint, this groundbreaking report explores the real challenges, trends, and experiences shaping the industry today.
Lost and Found: The Strangest Things Passengers Leave Behind in Taxis
What’s the most bizarre thing a passenger has ever left behind in a taxi? According to the 2024 National Taxi & Private Hire Driver Survey, drivers across the UK have found everything from engagement rings to a bag of bricks, and even a pet rabbit abandoned in their vehicles. Read the full article to see what passengers leave behind!
The Most Popular Cars for Taxi and Private Hire Drivers in the UK
What’s the most common car on the UK’s taxi and private hire ranks? The 2024 National Taxi & Private Hire Driver Survey reveals the most popular models and manufacturers across the industry. Read the full article to see the UK’s most popular taxi & PHV models.
Upcoming Changes to DBS Check Fees Effective from 2nd December 2024
The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) is set to increase fees for DBS checks and the DBS Update Service starting 2nd December 2024, pending parliamentary approval on 4th November 2024.
How the European Car Parts Shortage is Hitting the UK Taxi and Private Hire Trade
The UK’s taxi and private hire industry is grappling with severe car parts shortages, exacerbated by global supply chain disruptions, the shift to electric vehicle production, and competition from Chinese manufacturers. Repair delays and rising costs are leaving many drivers off the road.
Uber’s VAT Court Win Overturned in Appeal
In a landmark decision, the Court of Appeal overturned a High Court ruling that required private hire vehicle operators to contract directly with customers, which would have subjected them to a 20% VAT charge. This decision spares operators outside of London from this tax obligation, offering significant relief to the industry. The ruling was a victory for major operators like Veezu Holdings Ltd and Delta Merseyside Ltd, with further implications for the ongoing legal challenges facing Uber and the broader private hire sector.
DfT Publishes Latest Taxi and Private Hire Statistics
In our latest article, we break down the Department for Transport's recent statistical report on the UK taxi and private hire industry. We explore key trends, including changes in the number of licensed vehicles and drivers, and discuss what these figures mean for the future of the industry. Read on to discover how these trends could shape the industry moving forward.
New Speed Cameras: What All Drivers Need to Know
Speed cameras, crucial for road safety, have significantly reduced accidents and fatalities in the UK. The new Vector SR cameras enhance enforcement by detecting various offenses, including speeding and mobile phone use. Greater Manchester trials show promising results, with a potential national rollout on the horizon. Stay informed and drive safely.
Accessibility on Autopilot: The Push for Inclusive Autonomous Taxis in London
Lord Blencathra's recent debate on the Automated Vehicles Bill has sparked a crucial conversation about the future of UK transport. Discover how the iconic London black cab could inspire a new wave of accessible autonomous vehicles, transforming travel for wheelchair users and setting a new standard for inclusivity.
Driving Change: How Portsmouth's Bus Lane Trial Could Transform UK Transport
There have been mixed reactions to Portsmouth City Council’s recent trial; allowing PHVs to use 5 bus lanes in the city. While the trial was deemed a success, the reaction from some cabbies was far from jubilant. This summary explores the trial's objectives, outcomes, and the mixed responses from the community.
Decline of an Icon: Key points from the London Assembly Transport Committee
The London Assembly Transport Committee recently convened to discuss the issues and threats facing the London taxi sector. With declining numbers of licensed cabbies, and skyrocketing costs, what does the future of this iconic industry look like?