Uber has announced plans to integrate London's black cabs into its platform next year, a move aimed at easing a decade-long rift with the city's iconic taxis.
The capital's black cab drivers, renowned for passing "The Knowledge" test, a rigorous exam requiring mastery of thousands of city routes, have historically clashed with Uber, perceiving it as a threat to their profession.
Uber's forthcoming service, slated for early 2024, will permit black cab drivers to register on the app for pre-booked journeys. In a bid to entice participation, the U.S.-based company is offering a commission-free deal for the initial six months.
However, a group representing the majority of black cab drivers swiftly rebuffed the proposal, asserting a lack of demand among members.
"We're uninterested in tarnishing the prestigious reputation of London's iconic black cab trade by associating it with Uber, its subpar safety record, and all its associated factors," remarked Steve McNamara, general secretary of the Licensed Taxi Drivers Association (LTDA).
Black cabs, known as Hackney carriages, hold the exclusive privilege of picking up street hails or fares from taxi ranks in London. They are also available for booking through alternative apps.
In London, among Uber's top five markets, the company seeks to incorporate taxi drivers into its services, as successfully executed in cities like Paris, New York, and Rome. Uber contends that both passengers and taxi drivers stand to gain from collaboration.
Should London's cabbies opt to join the platform in substantial numbers, it would signify a substantial thaw in their contentious relationship.
Their feud peaked in 2014 when cab drivers staged street blockades protesting against Uber. Despite this, they've consistently voiced opposition to the service.
One driver, Hameed Hameedi, voiced support, becoming the initial London cab driver to enlist. He views this move as potentially granting a "significant advantage" to the trade.
"In the end, more passengers booking rides means greater earnings for cabbies," Hameedi highlighted. Photo by foam from Elgaland Vargaland, Wikimedia commons.