DELAYS AND WRITE-OFFS: Black cab parts shortages causing havoc across taxi industry and other sectors
The ongoing shortages of vehicle parts are causing significant disruption not just within the taxi industry, but across the wider private hire sector as well.
Reports from within the taxi trade suggest that these issues are far-reaching and affecting various vehicle models, leading to delays and increased operational costs.
Taxi fleet operators have voiced growing frustrations over the scarcity of essential components. This issue is particularly acute for later models of the TX4, with some Euro VI parts, such as injectors and hoses, becoming almost impossible to source. The problem is not limited to one type of vehicle, as shortages of TXE spares also fluctuate, leaving operators at the mercy of unpredictable supply chains.
This issue is not confined to taxis alone. Private hire vehicles, including some of the most popular models, are also being impacted by the same supply chain challenges. It’s currently not uncommon for vehicles to be off the road for weeks, sometimes months, due to unavailability of parts, with main dealers unable to provide any clear timelines for resolution.
According to a fleet expert talking in TAXI Newspaper, the knock-on effect is felt across the industry, with insurance companies increasingly writing off vehicles due to the high costs and delays associated with sourcing parts.
It was said: “Apparently its such a problem with body panels and parts, that its leading to insurance loss adjusters writing cars off at quite low repair estimates. The time and problems associated with getting parts causes significant extra costs in loan cars, storage charges, and admin costs, so writing the car off is a comparatively quick, easy, and an increasingly cost-effective way of dealing with claims.”
The difficulties in obtaining body panels and other crucial components have led to prolonged loan car periods, added storage charges, and soaring administrative costs. These challenges are said to have made vehicle write-offs a more attractive option for some insurers, further exacerbating the problems facing drivers.
