Taxi & PHV drivers in the UK could be set for surge in demand according to latest research
According to new research from technology firm, Alfi, taxi and private hire drivers could be set for a surge in passenger demand across the UK as lockdown restrictions slowly ease.
Research was conducted by independent research company Consumer Intelligence among 1,039 adults aged 18-plus weighted to represent the demographic profile of the UK between June 4th and 7th 2021.
Alfi, which provides taxis and rideshares with screens that can provide passengers with a range of important information from travel updates to local and international news, as well as revenue sharing opportunities with drivers and operators, says its study found 21% of adults who completed the survey – the equivalent of more than 11 million people across the UK – say they plan to use taxis more in the future than they did before the pandemic.
The firm say many will be switching from public transport over fears about the transmission of the virus. Around a quarter (25%) of those who will use taxis more, say they will be using public transport less or not at all with 10% saying they won’t go on public transport.
More than a third (34%) will be relying on taxis because they plan to socialise more, and say taxis are a better option. Around 10% of those planning to take more taxis say it is easier now to book them as there are more on the roads.
Some of those switching to taxis more are doing so reluctantly though – around 9% say they plan to do this because they think bus services will be cut, and 3% worry train services will be reduced, while 5% say it is because they have sold their cars during the crisis.
Kevin Buchler, Vice President- UK Operations, Alfi, said: “Taxi and private hire firms have struggled during the lockdowns along with other transport sectors with fewer customers travelling and restrictions on their own operations.
“A pickup in demand as restrictions ease will be very welcome and the reluctance from some people to use public transport because of COVID-19 concerns could be a good indicator of longer-term growth in demand for the sector.
“We are dedicated to understanding the ride-share experience for passengers, and provide inherent benefits to taxi owners, operators and drivers alike to further enhance their businesses and operations.
“In 2020, we deployed Alfi screens in Belfast as well as Miami, USA and received an overwhelming positive response from drivers and passengers alike. In particular they liked the fact that the material was relevant to the particular location where it is deployed. We are looking forward to rolling out this technology in London.”
Alfi say their digital-based technology enhances and transforms passenger journeys and the content on its tablets is designed to be informative, engaging, and relevant to passengers’ individual interests. Alfi currently has its tablets installed in several hundred vehicles in Northern Ireland through its partnership with Belfast based Value Cabs, as well with taxi and rideshare firms in the US and Brazil. It is looking to partner with other UK based taxi and rideshare companies and operations.
