Taxi rep questions whether one black cab vehicle option is enough for the long-term future of the industry
With only one licensed vehicle currently available—and at a price exceeding £100,000— some drivers are questioning their future in the trade, suggests London taxi driver representative.
Anthony Street, an Executive at the Licensed Taxi Drivers’ Association (LTDA), has raised concerns about the lack of competition in the market. With another 2,000 taxis expected to come off the road in the coming years, drivers face tough choices. Some may invest in costly new vehicles, while others could retire or switch professions altogether.
The driver representative suggests that there is speculation that government grants for plug-in vehicles may be extended, but no guarantees exist. Without further support or a more affordable alternative from another manufacturer, drivers may struggle to justify the expense of staying in the trade.
Street emphasised the need for more forward planning to protect the industry’s future. With rising costs and uncertainty over financial support, discussions on sustainability and investment in the trade have never been more urgent.
Street said in TAXI Newspaper: “One pressing issue is that there is currently only one vehicle on the market that meets the licensing requirements, and I think we can all agree that it comes with a hefty price tag. Do we need another manufacturer to introduce a more affordable alternative? It’s a crucial question. Over the coming years, another 2,000 taxis are expected to come off the road. While the government may extend the plug-in grant to help drivers purchase new taxis, we simply don’t know if that will happen.
“Drivers will have to make difficult decisions. Will they invest over £100,000 in a new vehicle, retire from the trade, or transition to another job? Many drivers I know already have another trade or skill they could fall back on, and they may opt to return to their previous careers.
“I think we need to explore every possible option to secure the future of this trade. It’s time for us as a community to reflect and plan ahead to keep this industry alive and thriving for generations to come.”
