TAXI INDUSTRY REVIEW: TaxiPoint reveals the most read stories from January 2023

As we approach the end of 2023, it's time to look back at the major events that shaped the taxi industry throughout the year.

Today, we begin our month-by-month review, starting with the most-read stories on TaxiPoint in January.

1. Tax Checks: HMRC Targets PHV Drivers Owed Taxes

The month kicked off with a headline-grabbing story from 2022 still gathering reads as HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) prepared to send out 4,000 letters to private hire vehicle (PHV) drivers targeting unpaid taxes. This move aimed to crack down on tax evasion in the industry.

https://www.taxi-point.co.uk/post/tax-checks-hmrc-to-send-out-4-000-letters-to-phv-drivers-targeting-tax-owed

2. PHV Driver Sentenced for Car Deception

A PHV driver faced sentencing after being caught swapping the plates and hand-painting a decoy car to replace a licensed write-off. The driver's attempt to deceive authorities came to an end with legal repercussions.

https://www.taxi-point.co.uk/post/phv-driver-sentenced-after-swapping-plates-and-hand-painting-decoy-car-to-replace-licensed-write-off

3. Wolverhampton Council's Record-Breaking PHV Licensing Year

Wolverhampton Council made headlines after licensing chiefs warned of the risk that their licensing service could over-expand, due to the ‘impossible’ job of judging when demand for new licences will plateau after a record breaking year.

https://www.taxi-point.co.uk/post/risk-and-reward-wolverhampton-council-on-course-to-record-breaking-phv-licensing-year

4. Council Set to Drop 15-Year Taxi Vehicle Age Limit

Following concerns raised by drivers over increased costs associated with new cab purchases, a council revealed plans to scrap the existing 15-year age limit for taxi vehicles. This decision aimed to alleviate the financial burden on drivers.

https://www.taxi-point.co.uk/post/15-year-taxi-vehicle-age-limit-set-to-be-ditched-by-council-after-driver-concerns-over-new-cab-costs

5. Uber Passenger Exposes System Scam

An Uber passenger exposed a new method used by drivers to avoid paying app commission fees. Referred to as a "con to the system," this revelation raised questions about the fairness and transparency of ride-hailing platforms.

https://www.taxi-point.co.uk/post/uber-passenger-reveals-new-con-to-the-system-used-by-drivers-to-escape-paying-app-commission-fees

6. Controversial Actions of a London Taxi Driver

A London taxi driver found himself in hot water after being caught on camera rolling a cannabis joint while driving. The incident drew condemnation from fellow taxi drivers, highlighting the importance of professionalism and adherence to safety regulations.

https://www.taxi-point.co.uk/post/clown-london-taxi-driver-caught-rolling-cannabis-joint-whilst-driving-lambasted-by-colleagues

7. Protests Over Cardiff Council's EV and Euro 6 Cab Plans

Taxi drivers in Cardiff continued their protests against the city council's plans to remove the cap on electric and Euro 6 taxis. The drivers expressed concerns about the potential oversaturation of the market and its impact on their livelihoods.

https://www.taxi-point.co.uk/post/taxi-drivers-continue-protest-against-cardiff-council-plans-to-remove-cap-for-ev-and-euro-6-cabs

These stories marked January with a mix of regulatory issues, driver controversies, and challenges in the taxi industry. Stay tuned as we revisit the significant events from the rest of the year, and look forward to what 2024 holds for this ever-evolving sector.