(qlmbusinessnews.com Fri, 1st Dec, 2023) London, UK —
Uber Plans Black Cab Integration in London
In a bid to resolve its prolonged feud with London taxi drivers, Uber is set to reintroduce black cabs to its platform, allowing cabbies to secure fares through the app. Starting from the New Year, Uber will roll out the service by enlisting individual taxi drivers to join its platform. This marks the first time in six years that travellers will have the option to hail black cabs via the Uber app.
Uber had previously allowed taxi drivers to offer rides in London from 2014 to 2017, but discontinued the feature due to low driver participation amid ongoing tensions with black cab drivers who argued that the ride-hailing service was undercutting their business.
Despite Uber's attempt to mend ties with black cabs, London's largest taxi union, the Licensed Taxi Drivers' Association (LTDA), rejected the announcement. LTDA's general secretary, Steve McNamara, expressed doubt that members would consider joining the app, citing concerns over passenger safety and workers' rights.
Andrew Brem, Uber's UK boss, called the move a “win-win-win” situation that would enhance options for taxi drivers and improve the efficiency of London's transport network. Uber plans to charge a service fee and take a referral fee from drivers after six months, with fares remaining regulated.
The reintroduction of black cabs to Uber's platform is part of the company's broader strategy to become an all-encompassing transport app, which has already seen the addition of trains and flights to its services. While Uber faced legal and political battles with taxi drivers across Europe during its initial expansion, it has since struck deals with taxi companies in multiple countries, including France, Belgium, Italy, and the US. Despite Uber's efforts, the LTDA claims that black cabs are gaining customers, offering a superior service at a fair and reasonable price.
Uber's move to reintegrate black cabs aims to create a more collaborative relationship between ride-hailing services and traditional taxis, reflecting a shift in the company's approach and recognition of the benefits of working together.
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