Back in September TFL warned that it would not renew Uber’s London licence when it expired at the end of the month, finding it unfit to hold a private hire licence due to a lack of corporate responsibility and a variety of issues (outlined below) that could risk passenger safety. Uber has now appealed that decision, which means until it goes to court in December it will be able to continue operating in London. According to TFL, Uber’s licence is at risk due to:
Its approach to reporting serious criminal offences Its approach to how medical certificates are obtainedIts approach to how Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks are obtainedIts approach to explaining the use of Greyball in London – software that could be used to block regulatory bodies from gaining full access to the app and prevent officials from undertaking regulatory or law enforcement duties
Uber’s chief executive Dara Khosrowshahi says the company should consider its most recent scandal as a lesson on the costs of a bad reputation and how the company’s actions in one part of the world can have serious consequences in another. “It’s critical that we act with integrity in everything we do, and learn how to be a better partner to every city we operate in. That doesn’t mean abandoning our principles – we will vigorously appeal TFL’s decision – but rather building trust through our actions and our behaviour.” TFL’s decision could have tremendous negative consequences for the 40,000 drivers and 3.5 million London commuters who regularly rely on Uber. Fortunately, a number of less expensive, pre-order and GPS tracking taxi and private hire companies provide service in London.
MyTaxi
Formerly known as Hailo, MyTaxi allows commuters with an iPhone or Android to book a black cab in over 50 countries around Europe. MyTaxi merged with Hailo to form Europe’s largest taxi app, with 100,000 cars in Europe and 17,000 in London. Simply download an app, and a black cab will arrive at your desired location. The app is compatible with iPhone and Android phones and allows users to track their cab’s progress, similarly to Uber. However, MyTaxi differentiates from Uber with its absence of surge charge pricing at times of high demand.
Gett
Similarly to MyTaxi, Gett offers flat pricing and an absence of surge pricing during peak hours. Though not as large-scale (yet) as its competitors, Gett has made 50 million+ journeys in 4 countries. It’s the only serious black cab app that offers services similar to Uber in the greater UK. Gett also plans to expand after a $300 million investment from Volkswagen in 2016.
Addison Lee
Over 40 years old, Addison Lee has recently upgraded to match its competitors by introducing the Addison Lee app. With the app customers can book a car ahead of time and receive a fixed rate. Addison Lee is the biggest minicab company in the UK and offers services in London, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Liverpool, Luton, Manchester, Cambridge, Cardiff, and Glasgow – as well as transfers to key UK airports. A disadvantage of this service is that it tends to be a bit pricier than its counterparts.
Kabbee
Exclusive to London, Kabbee’s fixed-rate service is 65% cheaper than black cab services. With simple booking via an app, Kabbee offers 24/7 bookings for minicabs. Kabbee gives users access to 10,000 London Cabs, pulling from over 70 providers. If you’re on a budget and looking to get around, this service is for you.
BlaBlaCar
BlaBlaCar differs from its competitors in that it’s strictly a carpooling service. Rather than ordering a ride, users can carpool with those who are already making a journey using this trusted French transportation service. The app allows you to view verified members’ profiles and AXA-insured rides to ensure safety and comfortability with every ride.
