A start of a new era for the famous black cab?
Need a taxi? You’ll no longer have to fumble around finding the cash. From Monday 31 October London’s black cabs will be taking card and contactless payments.
The move is part of mayor Sadiq Khan’s ambitious Taxi and Private Hire Action Plan, which will make lives easier for those travelling around the city, improve safety and it’s to ensure that London has a world- class taxi and private-hire market where all providers can thrive.
Major London taxi driver associations are supporting the new move.
Payment devices can be hand held or fixed but by January 2017 they must be fitted into the passenger side of the vehicles.
The move comes after Transport for London’s consultation had the support of 86 per cent of people requesting the use of cards in taxis.
Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “I’m delighted to announce that from next Monday, everyone using our iconic black cabs will be able to pay by card, making their journeys quicker and more convenient. Since becoming Mayor, I’ve been determined to ensure we have a vibrant taxi and private hire market that provides a truly world-class service for Londoners.
“While many black cab drivers already provide the service, it’s important that Londoners know for certain that they won’t have to run to the cash machine before they start their journey. Our black cabs provide a unique and invaluable service for Londoners and guaranteed card payment will be good for our black cab industry, and good for passengers across London.”
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