TAXIPOINT SUMMARY: What topics were spoken about during TfL, taxi trade and London Assembly debate?
The London Assembly Transport Committee convened yesterday for a critical examination of the challenges facing black taxis and Private Hire Vehicles (PHVs) in London's transport network. The meeting, marked by extensive discussions and testimonies, addressed the decline in taxi drivers and the push towards electrifying both PHVs and black taxis.
Key industry figures, including Helen Chapman (Director of Licensing, Regulation and Charging, TfL), Christina Calderato (Director of Transport Strategy and Policy, TfL), and Steve McNamara (General Secretary, Licensed Taxi Drivers' Association), provided valuable insights. They were joined by Mariusz Zabrocki (General Manager, FREENOW), Steve Wright MBE (Chair, Licensed Private Hire Car Association), and Asher Moses (CEO, Sherbet The Electric Taxi Company).
Over the coming days TaxiPoint will be delving into each point in more detail, but as a summary of the discussions the following were included:
Notable points emerged throughout the debate, which spanned approximately three hours. A central concern was the cost and reliability of the LEVC TX taxi, contributing to a reluctance among fleet owners like Asher Moses to invest further in new black cabs. The weekly rental costs, potentially exceeding £400, pose a significant financial burden.
Transport for London (TfL) expressed a desire to cap the numbers of taxis and PHVs, though they claim to have identified an existing under-supply in both sectors. A major issue highlighted by TfL was the challenge of cross-border hiring.
The committee also discussed the Knowledge of London, with Steve McNamara advocating for a speedier yet still rigorous process, involving more modular learning. There has been an uptick in Knowledge applicants in 2024, indicating a renewed interest in the profession.
Helen Chapman emphasised the unique role of PHV drivers, distinct from taxi drivers, in London's transport system. She also confirmed that taxi apps currently do not require an operator's licence, a situation that hasn’t so far been considered as many apps operate under a PHV operator's licence and there is no legal requirement.
A critical point of discussion was the future of the Plug-in Taxi Grant (PiTG), with uncertainty surrounding its extension beyond early April 2024. McNamara suggested not only extending the grant but increasing it to better support the industry's transition to electric vehicles.
Chapman raised the issue of VAT on wheelchair-accessible taxis and the importance of maintaining the tight turning circle feature for taxis, given London's road infrastructure.
The high cost of public charging stations was identified as a significant barrier to the adoption of electric taxis, especially for drivers who lack access to cheaper home charging options.
Additionally, TfL has drafted regulatory licensing requirements for pedi-cabs in London, signalling support for this mode of transport.
The meeting also addressed the impact of recent speed limit changes and the penalty point policy placed on the industry. McNamara highlighted the stressful nature of the job, leading to a departure of drivers from the sector.
The committee's discussions provided a comprehensive overview of the current state and future prospects of London's taxi and PHV services, highlighting the complexities and challenges that need to be addressed to ensure a sustainable and efficient transport network in the capital.
