ISSUE 12 / SEPT-OCT 2017

Brought to you by for London

A glimpse of the future

Emission possible Taking care Sales pitch Star delicensing the most of business how to choose attraction polluting taxis keeping drivers secure a new PH vehicle taxis on film CONTENTS 3 Have your say Contents Welcome. on the Mayor’s This is the second anniversary issue 12 of OnRoute and a lot has happened 8 16 since we turned one. This year the Mayor published his draft Transport Dramatic Taxi Strategy, an ambitious plan to improve Transport Strategy how we all around the Capital. licence delicensing Both taxi and private hire play The Knowledge Helping drivers an important part in that and we The Mayor, Sadiq Khan, wants to create a better city for takes to the switch to cover some of the biggest changes – London stage greener taxis the introduction of the Ultra Low all Londoners, and transport is at the heart of his vision. Emission Zone, zero emission taxis and rapid electric chargers – from p16. Choosing a car to use as a private hire The Transport Strategy sets out his plans to transform 11 24 vehicle is a big decision. On p12 we look Private hire The cab’s at the most popular models and what London’s streets, improve and create you should think about before buying. notice the star 24 opportunities for new homes and jobs. English language Taxis There’s advice on keeping safe while requirement on film driving (p14), applying for a licence online (p28) and carrying assistance dogs (p30). We’ve also been chatting to To find out more about the consultation the cast of The Knowledge play (p8). 12 28 It’s a bumper issue, but if there’s and to submit your views, visit anything we haven’t covered that Deals on Top tips you would like to read about in future tfl.gov.uk/mayors-transport-strategy wheels online issues, please drop us a line at Choosing a new The easy [email protected] or used vehicle way to apply Consultation ends 2 October 2017 for private hire for a licence 14 30 30 D Pilgrim Safety first Dogs on Editor Prioritising board driver safety Carrying assistance dogs

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Contact us at [email protected] London Taxi and Private Hire for operator and driver licensing TfL produces a weekly email with 230 Blackfriars Road, London enquiries and the Knowledge enquiries. information on current and forthcoming SE1 8PJ road closures and diversions. If you 0343 222 5555 for vehicle licensing would like to receive this, please For general enquiries email: appointments and enquiries. contact [email protected] [email protected] TPH news on Twitter: @TfLTPH The views expressed in OnRoute In our next issue… Visit the TfL website: tfl.gov.uk/tph For constant updates on diversions, are not necessarily those of TfL. 0343 222 4444 (lines open from congestion and accidents: 08:00 to 18:00, Monday to Friday) @TfLTrafficNews (roads) The Mayor’s cleaner vehicle checker Safer Travel at Night A family of cabbies 4 NEWS NEWS 5 News

Electric surge Taxi ranks Latest trend Twenty-five boroughs in London are to receive nearby almost £4.5m to install 1,500 electric vehicle charging points. Information on the location of all The new funding follows London’s taxi ranks is now on TfL’s These are the topics the Government’s Journey Planner. Ranked trending @TfLTPH: announcement that it number one will ban petrol and diesel Following its launch, vehicles from 2040. It will When customers go to the TfL website, ‘Plan a journey’ comes up on the homepage. The ‘Nearby’ option in the bottom A new taxi rank has been cabbies are discussing provide residential charge right corner takes them through to a box where they can type appointed outside the London Electric points for those drivers in their location. A map of the area is then displayed with exit of University College Vehicle Company’s without access to off-street icons showing where , stations, Santander cycles London Hospital (UCLH). new zero emission parking, helping them make and taxi ranks are located. If they click on a rank Some of the drivers using capable (ZEC) taxi the switch to zero emission they can see the number of spaces and the rank in Beaumont Place (see p19). vehicles. These will be in the opening hours. are participating in the addition to the network of 10HS scheme, which was Tweets about rapid charge points TfL is You can access Journey Planner by set up earlier this year. compliance team installing by the end of going to tfl.gov.uk/plan-a-journey It offers a 10 per cent activity continue to 2020 (see p18). discount on taxi to be widely shared and staff, patients and visitors at hospitals. Charity for the discussed and many drivers are reporting Security staff patrol the area, including the rank, Capital's children non-compliant vehicles and parking tickets will and illegal parking. Closures at Staples Corner be issued to any taxis left unattended on the rank or Next year is the 90th anniversary The @TfLTPH TPH Gimme shelter other vehicles parked there. Twitter feed now Staples Corner busy, so drivers should 19 September, and of the London Taxi Drivers’ Fund The cabmen’s has 13,194 followers. licensing flyover on the A406 allow more time and westbound from 22:00 shelter in Drivers who are interested for Underprivileged Children and will be closed on use alternative routes Tuesday 19 September in participating in the 10HS in numbers Grosvenor the charity is planning some special 17 September between where possible. to 05:00 Wednesday scheme can find more Gardens, built 00:01 and 23:59 20 September. information on Twitter at events to mark the occasion. It will also be closed in 1906 for taxi twitter.com/10HSTAXI for repairs. eastbound from 22:00 drivers waiting 24,201 For more information, go to Roads in the surrounding Monday 18 September Committee member Michael Son told OnRoute: ‘During the Taxi drivers tfl.gov.uk/northwest- at the rank, has area will be extremely to 05:00 Tuesday london-major-roadworks been given Grade year we’re having a Mad Hatter’s tea party, a grand gala dinner II-listed status. and ball, and I’m trying to organise a classical music concert No added and an art competition for the children. We are working with The small, 42 schools for children with special needs in the London area extras 21,140 The rebirth of Barking Riverside green hut, built because we want to give something back.’ Taxi vehicle licences by the Cabmen’s Damaged Charging more to use a credit The Government has given the green light for an extension of the Shelter Fund, Around 400 taxi drivers are currently involved with the charity. or debit card will become London Overground to Barking Riverside. This will help support one is one of only licence discs Go to www.thelondontaxidriverschildrenscharity.co.uk if you illegal in the UK from 13 January 2018. of east London’s largest new housing developments with the creation of 13 remaining in would like to join them 116,729 10,800 new homes. A school, healthcare facilities and commercial and the Capital and Private hire drivers and This will not affect taxi is still used by drivers as customers using Private hire driver licences leisure facilities will also be built. Services to a new Barking Riverside vehicle licence holders cards in taxis do not pay station are set to begin in late 2021. taxi drivers. should make sure their a surcharge on their . The listing vehicle licence discs are However, this will impact system was displayed at all times. private hire operators that 88,322 introduced in If your disc is accidentally currently charge more for card or contactless payments. Private hire 1947 to protect damaged, call vehicle vehicle licences historic licensing on 0343 222 5555 Look out for details in the November issue of OnRoute. after heavy to make an appointment bombing in at your closest vehicle For more information, go to 2,443 the Second inspection centre. There www.gov.uk and search under World War. is no charge to replace a ‘card charges to be outlawed’ Private hire operators damaged licence disc. 6 PICTURE THIS TAXI DRIVERS' OUTING TAXI DRIVERS' OUTING PICTURE THIS 7 A trip down memory lane

A group of Jewish taxi drivers from east London pose on a charabanc during their annual outing in July 1923. Traditionally, there’s been a strong connection between the taxi trade and the Jewish community in east London with many people enrolling on the Knowledge after both World Wars and following National Service. Do you know anything more about this picture or the people in it? Or do you have another memory of the taxi or private hire trade you’d like to share? Get in contact at [email protected] Picture courtesy of Ken Flemwell and Arnie Prayer courtesy of Ken Picture Potters Bar M25 Waltham 23 24 25 Radlett Abbey 27 A1055 26 M25

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Sevenoaks A227 10 BACKCHAT JAMES ALEXANDROU ENGLISH LANGUAGE TPH NOTICE 11 East End boy English language Q Has the London black a bridge on the Thames, requirement update taxi been a constant but especially Tower Actor James Alexandrou grew up motif in your life? Bridge looking west or Westminster Bridge in the East End, made his name as A Yes I suppose it has – living in London the black looking east. We have Martin Fowler in EastEnders and now cab is just part of the the most beautiful city landscape. Pretty much in the world. lives in Shoreditch. He’s treading the everyone I know has a taxi Q You once said of your driver somewhere in their exit from EastEnders: boards as Gordon in The Knowledge family: fathers, uncles, ‘You either leave in a aunties, or among their black cab or a coffin’. peer group. I feel a great Did you ever want to debt of responsibility with reappear by stepping The Knowledge to do a out of a taxi into good, honest job about the Square? playing this character, A Tha t ship – or taxi – has Gordon, who is attempting sailed/left the rank! There to become a taxi driver. is someone else playing I want cabbies and their my part now. I was asked families to come and see back a while ago and there the show and recognise all was a part of me that the characters on stage as fancied it for a second but people they know. the timing was just so bad Q D o you think you for me and I had to say no could ever do the in the end. Knowledge yourself? Maybe one day, if the A I foolishly think – rather current fella leaves, like Gordon – that I could I could come back and do do it, but I don’t have the a little cameo appearance. will power or dedication That would be nice. needed to complete it. It would be like asking Q Do you keep in an actor to learn a touch with any 10,000-page script, just EastEnders pals? ridiculous. I’m incredibly A Not as many as I’d like, impressed by those who actually. It’s been a while successfully pass the test. now but I need to catch I’m quite tempted to have up with Natalie Cassidy a mock Appearance, but (Sonia). I’m sure she would probably fail! will come and see The Last year, TfL made a number of regulatory changes to raise Knowledge – and love it! I’v e actually sat in the Ray Panthaki (Ronny) is a standards in London’s private hire industry, including introducing room during a few very good friend of mine, Appearances and the and I still see Mohammed an English language requirement pressure is incredible. George (Gus). We three I’v e been up to audition play football together. This was upheld by the High Court on had until 30 September 2017 to provide If you need advice about your private for several big jobs and and requires applicants evidence of their ability to comply with the hire licence or application, please email Q T ell us how your 3 March 2017 I know if I don’t get it, for either a new or renewal private hire requirement. That deadline has now been [email protected] or call the directorial film I’ll move on. But these driver’s licence to demonstrate they extended to . licensing team on debut (The Show) 16 July 2018 0343 222 4444 Knowledge candidates can communicate in English at the (Monday to Friday, 08:00 to 18:00). came about? Current licence holders whose application have so much more at appropriate level for speaking, for a private hire driver’s licence was stake when they walk A I made a short film that listening, reading and writing. into that room. I’m sure was shown at some film received before 14 October 2016 will I’d buckle under that sort festivals. A producer saw it However, the High Court’s judgement need to satisfy the English language of pressure. and liked it and asked if I’d is now subject to an appeal, which will requirement only at the point where like to make a feature film. be heard from 20 February 2018. they apply to renew their licence. Q What’s your favourite I then wrote The Show, Previously, anyone whose application for a Drivers whose licence needs to be renewed Helen Chapman journey in London? which draws upon some new or renewal private hire driver’s licence before 16 July 2018 have until that date to general manager A Any journey home… I do of my experiences leaving was received on or after 14 October 2016 satisfy the English language requirement. London Taxi and Private Hire love going home. Actually, EastEnders and going on any journey that crosses to do a stage play. 12 FEATURE CHOOSING A PH VEHICLE CHOOSING A PH VEHICLE FEATURE 13

London’s PH vehicles come in all shapes and sizes – the top 10 models are made by six different manufacturers. So when it comes to choosing one, what should you be looking for?

efore you consider the cost, Passenger space and comfort engine size, layout and Euro 4 emission standards: special features, there are If you want to build customer loyalty some criteria all PH vehicles you’ll need to think about how easy it Petrol Bhave to comply with before they can is for people to get in and out of the car be licensed. (especially in an emergency) and how 1g/km comfortable their journey is. Look for a carbon dioxide Those presented for first licensing spacious interior with lots of legroom. in London must currently meet euro 4 emission standards as a Passengers travelling to and from 0.10g/km minimum (see box on right). From 1 or stations may have bulky hydrocarbons January 2018, they must have a Euro luggage, while others may have hired 6 petrol or diesel engine, or a Euro 4 you specifically because they have a 0.08g/km petrol-hybrid engine. lot of shopping, or have pushchairs nitrogen oxides or buggies. You should check the boot All PH vehicles must be constructed size is adequate. or adapted to seat fewer than nine no limit passengers, including the driver. Wheelchair accessible vehicles particulate matter They cannot resemble a taxi and must not be a public service vehicle (such as How to… Section 165 of the Equality Act Diesel a minibus, larger vehicle or stretched 2010 states that drivers of taxis and capable of taking more than wheelchair-accessible PH vehicles eight passengers). 0.50g/km must carry wheelchair users and carbon dioxide Vehicle reliability provide mobility assistance without choose a additional charge. Non-compliant and maintenance costs drivers risk prosecution and fines of up 0.30g/km to £1,000. There is a list of designated hydrocarbons Although your budget will influence wheelchair-accessible PH vehicles what vehicle you buy, you should on the TfL website. 0.25g/km factor in how reliable it is going to be, nitrogen oxides PH vehicle and how much it will cost you to get it serviced. You could buy an older model Further information can be found at that has previously been licensed but tfl.gov.uk/tph under ranks, regulation 0.025g/km it may well have done a lot of mileage and policy particulate matter so repairs and maintenance could be costly. Ten most popular PH vehicles Fuel type, efficiency in London and emissions standards Make Model Total With poor air quality becoming an TOYOTA PRIUS 23,602 increasingly important issue in the Capital, you should consider hybrid FORD GALAXY 10,151 or pure electric vehicles. Currently, MERCEDES E CLASS 8,266 it is proposed that the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) will launch in VAUXHALL ZAFIRA 4,769 September 2020 in central London to VOLKSWAGEN SHARAN 3,418 help improve air quality and people’s health. All PH vehicles will need VAUXHALL INSIGNIA 3,115 to meet more stringent emission VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT 2,921 standards or pay an additional daily charge when travelling within central HONDA INSIGHT 2,190 London (see p16 to 19). MERCEDES V CLASS 2,157 Even further in the future, the Government intends to ban all new MERCEDES S CLASS 1,957

Data as at June 2017 petrol and diesel cars by 2040. 14 FEATURE DRIVER SAFETY DRIVER SAFETY FEATURE 15

Spit kits

Being spat at is a nasty – and personal – form of assault. Andrew Brook from the workplace support team in TfL’s enforcement and on-street operations, would like all taxi and private hire drivers to consider carrying a spit kit in Keeping safe their vehicle so offenders can be identified and prosecuted. Kits contain a swab that can be used to collect DNA samples from saliva. They are widely available online and cost just a few pounds. If a correctly used spit kit is submitted to the for analysis, there is an 80 per cent chance of identifying a suspect. and sound However, in many spitting cases people don’t have a kit to hand or use it incorrectly, so here are a few pointers. Although assaults on taxi and PH drivers are rare, it pays When your kit arrives, check it If you are spat at you should: You should then: to take precautions and there are a number of things you contains everything you need: Use your spit kit at the first Write your full name and the date can do to keep yourself out of harm’s way Instruction leaflet available opportunity on the tube. Put it into the evidence bag and seal it A sterile swab in tube Only swab from the skin or clothing. Fill in the information panel on the An exhibit bag Do not swab from surfaces that passengers have access to as this front of the bag and take it to a One pair of sterile gloves may lead to cross-contamination police station as soon as possible Check the ‘use by’ date on Use the gloves supplied The police can help you fill in the Deterring crime your kit. Most have a shelf life information panel on the bag and of about two years. write your witness statement. Having a CCTV system annual licensing inspection, Did you know… fitted to your taxi or the CCTV system will be PH vehicle – while not checked to make sure it is Some insurers offer mandatory in London – approved and that it has How to use your spit kit can make you and your been fitted correctly. discounts passengers safer. of between The images recorded must CCTV can: be kept secure at all times 10 and 20 and can only be retained Deter and prevent crime for 28 days from the date per cent Reduce the fear of crime when they were taken. on premiums if a dash There is more guidance on Help the police to cam that records how to keep personal data investigate crimes external activity is secure on the Information fitted to your vehicle. Aid insurance companies Commissioner’s Office It is worth checking when they investigate website at www.ico.org.uk/ motor accidents with your own insurer to see if they offer Remove gloves from Check the seal on the Remove the swab from Immediately place Assist in any disputes You can find TfL’s guidelines on this. Only dash cams the sterile packaging swab tube isn’t broken the sterile tube and apply the swab back in the between drivers and CCTV and a list of TfL approved approved by TfL and put them on (if it is, don’t use it) cotton bud end directly on tube when this is done their passengers CCTV systems at tfl.gov.uk/ corporate/publications-and- are permitted. to the contaminated area CCTV systems approved reports/taxi-and-private-hire (where it has landed on by TfL can be installed in your skin or clothing) taxis and PH vehicles. When you take your vehicle for its If you have CCTV fitted in your taxi or private hire vehicle, you must display Acid attacks Who this sign In the past year, incidents involving acid being thrown at people have almost doubled according to Metropolitan Police Service figures to call (from 261 in 2015 to 454 in 2016). One attack has so far been reported against a private hire driver. Call If you are attacked, or come across someone who has been a victim of an acid attack, the police advice is: 101 if the Get immediate medical help Do not pull off clothing stuck (call emergency services) to the skin or take clothing threat is not off over your head, instead immediate or Wash  with a lot of water for cut away affected clothing 20 minutes or more 999 Do not sniff the substance Make sure the ‘run off’ water in an to find out what it is as you from washing the affected area emergency could inhale it doesn’t get on to other parts of the body 16 FEATURE TAXI DELICENSING/ULEZ TAXI DELICENSING/ULEZ FEATURE 17

Cleaning up London’s taxi fleet will play a significant part in our toxic air battle… It is important we financially support drivers to help them retire their oldest vehicles and upgrade to greener models Mayor Sadiq Khan

Taxis Private hire 1 January ZEC vehicle definition Taxis are a significant contributor to London’s Age of The Mayor wants to introduce the ULEZ in toxic air quality and are responsible for 16 per central London next April – 17 months earlier 2018 – taxi from Payment Zero cent of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and 26 per cent first DVLA amount than first proposed. 31 December emission of particulate matter (PM) emissions from road registration 2019 range Clean All PH vehicles will need to meet specific exhaust C02 transport in central London. From 1 January 2018, less than emission standards or pay an additional daily All PHVs new diesel taxis will not be licensed in the Capital. 75g/km and at least 10 years £5,000 charge of £12.50 when travelling in the zone. licensed for the 20 miles Taxis presented for licensing for the first time will Petrol cars, vans and minibuses must be Euro 4, first time during need to be Zero Emission Capable (ZEC), which 11 years £3,800 while diesel cars, vans and minibuses must be this period must means their carbon dioxide (CO ) emissions must 2 Euro 6. have a Euro 6 and be no more than 50g/km and they have a minimum There are three categories 12 years £2,800 30-mile zero emission range. The maximum A ZEC vehicle is defined as having a zero petrol or diesel engine, or a 15-year age limit for taxis will remain. 13 years £1,900 emission range of at least 20 miles and must Euro 4 petrol- produce less than 75g/km CO2. There are three Category 1 Help with funding 14 years £1,200 categories (see table on right). hybrid engine. green C02 less than The Mayor and TfL have launched the taxi 15 years Ineligible Car scrappage schemes 50g/km Zero Maximum delicensing scheme, a £42m fund to encourage emission Government January 2020 grant the owners of the oldest, most polluting diesel range Everything you Many car manufacturers already have scrappage – 31 December £4,500 black cabs to switch to cleaner models. The schemes where owners can get rid of their older, scheme will provide grants of up to £5,000 2022 70+ miles need to know about dirtier vehicles and be reimbursed against the towards delicensing these vehicles. Owners of PHVs under cost of a new, cleaner one. taxi delicensing, the 10-year-old taxis may receive the full £5,000, 18-months-old scaling down to £1,200 for one aged between Now Ford, Toyota and Volkswagen have also being licensed Category 2 Ultra Low Emission 14 and 15-years-old. launched schemes. Owners of all Ford cars and for the first time To apply for the vans registered before 1 January 2010 will be C0 The three-year scheme aims to tackle air will have to be 2 Zone and what it means scheme, you must: offered discounts of between £2,000 and £7,000 less than Zero pollution and make the taxi fleet greener. The ZEC. Older PHVs 50g/km emission Maximum depending on the new model chosen. range Government for your vehicles goal is for London’s entire road system to be zero Own a TfL-licensed taxi must have a grant emission by 2050. The Volkswagen scheme applies to any diesel Euro 6 engine £2,500 that is between 10 and vehicle that has emissions standards lower 10-69 The Government also offers a plug-in taxi grant when licensed 15-years-old than Euro 5 and was registered before 2010. It is Price cap £60,000 miles of up to £7,500 to help with the costs of buying for the first time. offering discounts from £1,800 up to £6,000. a new ZEC taxi. This will be available to the first Be listed as the 9,000 licensed in London up to 2020. owner of the licensed Toyota's scheme is open to vehicles more than seven-years-old, including Priuses, and could Category 3 The scheme will run until 31 December 2020, taxi in the V5 log From 1 save drivers up to £4,000 on a new car. subject to funding. More information will be January 2023 ith pollution in London book registered C0 available in future issues of OnRoute. All schemes run until 31 December 2017. All PHVs of any 2 a public health priority, on TfL’s records 50-75g/km Zero age will need to emission Maximum Mayor Sadiq Khan is working range Government Go to tfl.gov.uk/taxi-delicensing Have a current MOT Go to www.ford.co.uk be ZEC when grant hard to clean up the Capital. £2,500 WThis includes making our taxi and private hire and your taxi must be www.volkswagen.co.uk/scrappage licensed for the 20+ fleets the greenest in the world. in a roadworthy state www.toyota.co.uk first time. Price cap £60,000 miles 18 FEATURE RAPID CHARGERS ZEC TAXIS FEATURE 19

Rapid chargers, charging times, taxis and private hire A tale of two taxis

Charge times from empty to full To help ZEC taxi and private hire drivers maximise fuel There are several electric taxi models being developed, including the London Electric Vehicle cost savings, TfL is expanding London’s network of Company’s TX and the Nissan Dynamo. Standard electric charger rapid electric vehicle charging points. Up to Up to 7kW 7 miles range hours 6-8 from 15 a 15 7 miles minutes minute charge

Fast electric charger

20 miles 22 kW range from to hours 1 2 a 15 minute charge

15 20 miles minutes TX specifications Nissan Dynamo specifications Fully electric powertrain and small 80kW fully electric motor petrol generator Turning circle: 10.6m Petrol range extending maintains battery level Range: 106 miles Turning circle: 7.62m Maximum speed: 76mph Battery electric range: more than 70 miles Battery type: laminated lithium ion Rapid electric charger and combined range with petrol generator of more than 400 miles Rapid charge (allowing 50kW rapid charge) 40 miles Aluminium body ensures low weight while Up to kW 50 range maintaining vehicle length 6.6kW charger (home charging) from Five rear seats 20 to 30 a 15 Six passenger seats minutes minute Double-folded, easy-stow ramp charge Mobile phone charging points Retractable wheelchair ramp Panoramic sunroof Panoramic sunroof 15 40 miles minutes

At least At least Do you know… about the T-Charge? 75 installed 150 300 by the end of by the end of by the end of Set to be introduced on Charge payable by owners of registered before 2008). 23 October, the T-Charge older, more polluting vehicles 2018 2020 will act as a stepping stone who drive in the existing zone. Both taxis and PH vehicles will 2017 ahead of the launch of be exempt from the T-Charge the ULEZ. All petrol vehicles will need to meet Euro 4 standards, For more information, (90 for taxis) (more may It’s an additional daily £10 while diesel models will need go to tfl.gov.uk/T-Charge be required to supplement to the Congestion to meet Euro 6 (mainly those = 2kW (actual mileage gains and time taken to charge will vary by vehicle model) meet demand) 20 CASE STUDY GREEN TOMATO CARS GREEN TOMATO CARS CASE STUDY 21

Keeping the city’s air clean

How one company is leading the way in providing an environmentally-friendly private hire service For all our sakes what we now need to achieve is more zero emission cars so they become the norm rather than the exception Julia Thomas, MD Green Tomato Cars

reen Tomato cars was is comparable to our hybrid cars. launched in 2006 by friends We’ve had great feedback from both Then Jonny Goldstone and Tom the passengers and drivers who enjoy Pakenham, who wanted the quiet, comfortable ride, love the Company founded: Gto create an eco-friendly private hire fact the vehicle is zero emission and 2006 service. They were both working in are also interested in the technology.’ law firms at the time but left to join This year the company has been Number of cars: four other private hire operators before steadily increasing its fleet of ZEC opening their first office in West vehicles and has been trialling Number of drivers: four London with four hybrid cars and a Hyundai’s new IONIQ full-electric (two still work with handful of employees. model, which lets the driver choose the company today) More than a decade later, the firm – from hybrid, plug-in hybrid or full- part of the Transdev group – employs electric modes – the world’s first car Number of corporate 700 drivers in the Capital. to offer all three of these options. clients: one Managing director, Julia Thomas, As far as the company is concerned, says: ‘We are always trying to improve the future really is green. ‘Expanding and build on what we did yesterday. our zero emission fleet is a business We pride ourselves on our innovative priority so we are always looking for Now approach. A decade ago we were the ways to grow our electric fleet either Offices in: Isleworth, first private hire company to use hybrid through electric battery or hydrogen vehicles in London. We were also the fuel cell vehicles,’ explains Julia. Washington DC, USA first to put air pollution sensors in our ‘One challenge is ensuring the and Paris vehicles and the first to offset all our refuelling and recharging emissions. In fact, we double offset. infrastructure is comprehensive Vehicles in London: After every trip we calculate the job enough to maintain our great - Toyota Prius mileage and fund carbon reduction customer experience and smooth - Volkswagen Sharan projects accordingly.’ and efficient operations. - Volkswagen CC In 2014 the company added the sleek ‘With air pollution being the major - Mercedes E Class Tesla Model S to its fleet and in 2016 public health issue in London, for - Mercedes S Class it introduced London’s first hydrogen all our sakes what we now need to - Tesla Model S fuel cell PH vehicles. Its two Toyota achieve is more zero emission cars so - Toyota Mirai Mirai saloons use hydrogen gas, they become the norm rather than the stored in tanks behind the rear seats exception. Green Tomato Cars is proud Number of drivers and under the back axle, to generate of the leadership it is showing on this in London: 700 electricity. The only by-product is water in the private hire market.’ (pictured top right). Says Julia: ‘The Mirais have fitted into our fleet in a seamless way in large part For more information, go to www.greentomatocars.com due to the vehicle’s range of 300 plus or email [email protected]

The hydrogen-powered Toyota Mirai Toyota hydrogen-powered The miles and the fact that refuelling time 22 FEATURE VOX POP Conveniently, all London taxis now accept cash, card Emission control and contactless

London’s dirty air affects us all. OnRoute asks what people really think Search TfL Improvements about plans to reduce emissions

I’ve been driving private hire for four years. It’s a difficult thing but it’s good that the Government is phasing out diesel and petrol cars in favour Laura Waite, 34, product Sukhjit Singh Summan, 32, of hybrid and electric. I think manager for a tour operator security officer 2040 is too far away, maybe 2025 would be better. I drive ‘I think it’s brilliant the ‘Everyone’s got to do their a petrol hybrid and have had it Government wants to ban part to make the world a for six months. It’s a good car petrol and diesel cars by greener place to live in. 2040 but they need to look Fuel prices are only going and the fuel consumption seriously at introducing to get higher. Banning diesel is very low more charging stations for and petrol cars is the way electric vehicles because forward. They should do Mohammed Farooq, 47, there aren’t enough.’ it sooner as 2040 is a long private hire driver way away.’

James Eckersley, 45, director of a seafood business, and Kirsteen Eckersley, 44, cabin crew I might take advantage of delicensing my taxi, which is James: ‘I have pretty mixed views on the ban on diesel eight-years-old. It is something and petrol. I don’t see us driving electric any time soon. We live in the north of Scotland and are down here for a I might consider when it comes to wedding. We need to travel bigger distances and an changing cabs, but I cannot imagine electric car is not going to do that for us.’ driving a hybrid or electric car Kirsteen: ‘You definitely notice a big difference in air Margaret Allen, 73, quality when you come to London. It feels much cleaner taxi driver for 40 years and fresher where we live.’

Efe Ezekiel, 38, John Beesley, 74, and Claire Steven Deacon, 53, black manager of a youth Clarke, 78, both retired taxi driver for 24 years mentoring organisation John: ‘We don’t live in ‘I think getting rid of diesel ‘I think everybody should London, but at our local and petrol cars by 2040 is be given a choice. I know school we see parents a good idea. I imagine by it probably would be waiting for their children that time most cars will be better for our air pollution, with their engines running, electric anyway. My taxi is but at the end of the day, pumping out these noxious diesel and is three-years- we’re all individuals fumes from their cars.’ old. I’m a while away from and it should be left to thinking about changing Claire: ‘2040 is too late. everyone to decide what cabs, but when the time Think about babies in car they want to drive and comes, I would consider 3 4 pushchairs. They face the how they want to live in taking advantage of any traffic all the time. And it’s a this world.’ grants to help.’ good idea to ban licences for diesel cabs too.’ THOMASDANTHONY.COM 24 FEATURE LONDON CAB COMPANY LONDON CAB COMPANY FEATURE 25

Lights, camera... cab please!

London’s iconic black taxis have had starring roles in ads, music videos, photoshoots and blockbuster films. OnRoute meets the man behind the appearances.

Picture caption 26 FEATURE LONDON CAB COMPANY LONDON CAB COMPANY FEATURE 27

t’s a bit of a cliché to say that cab drivers like to boast and has never looked back. His TV resumé to date includes about the famous faces they’ve had in their cab, but for EastEnders, Holby City, Silent Witness, Extras, Sherlock and I worked with Pierce Brosnan for Gary Zylberszac, who runs The London Cab Company, The Night Manager. it really is part of the day job. Mamma Mia the Movie, doing the I Not content with success on the small screen his cabs Gary got his ‘bill’ in 1982 at the age of 21 and drove his fair (and often his driving skills) have featured in films scene where he jumped in the cab in share of celebrities – from Tom Jones and Diana Rigg to including The Bourne Ultimatum, Mamma Mia, Paddington, Jonathan Ross and Gary Barlow – until a random knock Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie and The Mummy. And New York to go to the airport. In reality, on the door took his business in a new direction. the whole world was watching when Gary’s cab turned into Buckingham Palace taking Daniel Craig to meet The Queen In 1998, a TV company was looking for a 1930s semi- it was shot at the Lloyds in the during the opening ceremony of the 2012 London Olympics. detached house as a location and approached Gary who lived nearby. This was a new world to him and he quickly So how does nearly 20 years in the entertainment world feel? City. I got the gig because at the time spotted an opportunity. Not for his house, but for his taxi. We caught up with Gary to find out… He started supplying action cabs to production companies I was running a couple of New York cabs as part of my stable of taxis

Q Do you do all the Q Which star do you feel driving appearances most privileged to have yourself? shared a set with? A I do what I can, but if A In Night at the Museum: you’re in a series with six Secret of the Tomb, the episodes, with a couple of characters run across cabs needed in each one, the road in front of my you can’t be every cabbie cab, just as the camera in London, so I have a very crosses the other way, reliable crew of drivers. so timings were a bit tight. We had to do it a Q Do you still take fares few times and, between as well as media takes, Robin Williams was bookings? standing in front of the A Yes, I still go out in the cab cab with the crew. I think but not a great deal. The it was one of his last films, average cab does 30,000 as he sadly died a few miles a year and I have weeks later. a two-year-old cab that has only just clicked over Q What about a laugh- 20,000 miles. out-loud moment? A Once I was crossing a set Q Any bucket list shows with actor Wesley Snipes, Above: Out on location you always wanted to just me and him walking work on? down a road in Wales, A When the series 24 and there were all these In June, I drove Adele from was coming to shoot girls screaming at us from in London, one of my nearby office buildings. the Wembley Stadium stage. customers was supplying I apologised to him and Above: Singer Rita Ora shooting a campaign for Rimmel London the vehicles. I begged told him it happens Below: Filming interior shots of a taxi I had to reverse from the him to get me on the job wherever I go! and I became Secret players’ tunnel on a specially- Service Driver No 1 in the presidential convoy for Gary’s current constructed road and pick her President Heller, not in cast list available one of my cabs, but in an up while she was still singing. American vehicle. for starring roles Q Did it live up to 1955 FX3 It was pitch black with expectations? 1974 FX4 security and production crew A I was as excited as a kid in a sweet shop but, guess 1990 Fairway all around and Adele hanging what, it was the same as all the other shoots I’d 1998 TX1 and TX4 out of the back window. been on! Lots of waiting around and repeating It was a somewhat worrying what you do several times Find out more at until everyone is happy. www.thelondoncabcompany.co.uk/ four minutes It's just another job. 28 HOW TO... APPLY ONLINE APPLY ONLINE HOW TO... 29

Your document folder checklist

Medical Declaration (form TPH/204) English language certification/evidence Full-colour photograph (headshot) You also need to pay the application fees so have your credit or debit card to hand.

Uploading your documents Existing licensees First... New applicants should Register for an online account Make sure you have all your carefully read through If you are registering for an online Make sure you enter the customer using the web portal at documents saved in a folder on your account and already hold a valid online reference number and the It’s laptop or desktop ready to upload. London taxi driver or PH driver licence number correctly. tph.tfl.gov.uk/TfL/home.page driver the advice on the If you don’t, your account cannot be Applications are frequently left licence, you need to answer yes to the successfully linked to your licence You will need: incomplete because people attempt website. This tells them question under the heading for existing licence holders. This is really and this can cause various issues. A valid email address that to upload several pages of a document easy as individual files but miss out some. what documentation important as it will allow your online If you are an existing licensee and your account will be linked to If you do have documents that are account to be correctly linked to your think you may have registered as a A memorable password to sign more than one page, such as your London taxi or PH driver licence. If new applicant, or submitted a new they’ll need to submit you don’t, you could end up in with Medical Declaration (form TPH/204), application by mistake, please call then scan them all and save them as an application. registering as a new driver. A number the taxi and private hire team who online A security question and answer one document. of people have done this and it can will be able to assist you. cause delays in the processing of their that you will have to provide The private hire regulations have Trying to submit an renewal applications. when signing in to your account recently changed and include a new If you need help with your online application, Applying for, or After you have selected yes you will English language requirement (p11). application more than email [email protected] be asked to provide a customer online or call 0343 222 4444 and select options 1 Your password can always be You can upload your English language renewing, your taxi reference number and your driver and 3. reset using the forgotten password evidence along with other evidence once can cause delays licence number in the drop down or private hire licence link or you can call the taxi and for your application. For assistance with photograph and and lead to multiple boxes. These numbers are provided DBS-related questions, you can also private hire team on 0343 222 4444 You’ll also need a recent, clear, in the renewal pack that is sent out to book an appointment to visit the online is simple and provide additional security full-colour photograph. Make sure you existing licensees when it is time for counter service at Chancel Street information to have it reset. upload it to your documents folder. charges being incurred them to renew. (behind 230 Blackfriars Road). 30 FEATURE ASSISTANCE DOGS ASSISTANCE DOGS FEATURE 31

There are a number of different Travelling with a types of assistance dogs recognised in the UK: canine companion Guide Dogs Hearing Dogs for Deaf People London’s taxis and PH vehicles offer independence and freedom Dogs for Good Canine Partners to many people, including those with assistance dogs Dog AID Support Dogs Medical Detection Dogs In addition, there are people who have trained their own dogs.

We take a zero tolerance approach to drivers refusing to carry passengers accompanied by assistance dogs and we encourage customers to report any incidents to us, so we can investigate and take the appropriate regulatory action Helen Chapman, TPH’s general manager

lthough most drivers are aware of their Since February 2015, TfL has successfully Need more help? responsibilities and offer an excellent Did you know...? prosecuted 24 private hire drivers for not service, some may not know all the accepting assistance dogs, resulting in more facts. They may not want to carry dogs Taxi and private hire drivers than £7,000 in fines and costs. Charities TfL has produced a If you have further Abecause they see them as a safety risk, are scared can’t refuse a passenger working for disabled groups have welcomed number of short films questions, contact TfL of them or feel they are a health hazard. because they have an assistance these prosecutions. to help disabled people using the online form at dog. Drivers could risk losing get around the Capital. tfl.gov.uk/tphcomments These fears are all unfounded and Natasha ‘We wholeheartedly support licensing authorities Go to tfl.gov.uk/ Fleming, from Guide Dogs UK’s London mobility their licence or face a fine of up using the powers they have to prosecute drivers to £1,000 transport-accessibility You can also email team says drivers should put themselves in the who flout the law by refusing to take assistance [email protected], disabled person’s position. ‘Imagine you were dogs, and we want tougher sentences for drivers You can find out more or write to London Taxi turned away by a driver or asked to pay an extra Passengers can’t be charged who turn away assistance dog owners,’ says about accessibility and and Private Hire, PO Box fare, for no good reason. Unfortunately this more for a taxi or private hire Natasha. ‘We also urge all owners who are refused guidance for drivers at 71087, London SE1P 5TH happens all too often to our assistance dog journey because they have an access to alert the local licensing authority, as tfl.gov.uk/tph. Just owners and it is an incredibly stressful and assistance dog we believe there is an issue around the under- click on ‘ranks, To talk to someone, difficult experience.’ reporting of cases.’ regulation and policy’ call 0343 222 4444 Natasha also points out that assistance dogs Assistance dogs must be seated TfL has made it easier for customers to report any between 08:00 and 18:00, are highly-trained, have regular health checks with their owners at all times problems with taxi or private hire journeys via the Monday to Friday and are chosen because they are naturally calm. website or by calling 0343 222 4000. A guide to assistance dogs Guide Dogs ‘We wear white LETTERS 33 for private hire drivers harnesses with yellow Passengers with assistance dogs use private hire fluorescent stripes.’ services to make their way around the Capital. Guide dogs are for young In the UK there are more than 7,000 active working people and adults who are Email us at [email protected]. We will print a selection of emails dogs. Assistance dogs are your passengers too. blind or partially sighted. Letters every issue – and there’s a £20 Amazon voucher on offer for the best.

Sitting idle Star letter On the subject of idling engines and Private hire coverage the resulting increase in pollution, would it not be wise to look at Hearing Dogs for Dog AID changing traffic light phasing to I am sorry to say that after As TfL licenses both the help traffic flow easier in certain Deaf People (Assistance in reading most issues of taxi and private hire trades areas – such as Blackfriars Bridge OnRoute, I find it biased to in London we try to keep (northbound) and Embankment/ ‘We wear burgundy disability) the needs of TfL and is always the editorial in OnRoute as Upper/Lower Thames Street (eastbound) – that are very jackets.’ ‘We wear red jackets.’ featuring taxi info. Please tell even-handed as possible. me why if we, the minicab In each issue we aim for a congested all day long. Hearing dogs are for adults Dog AID dogs are for trade, outnumber the taxi mix of taxi and private hire David Bowen (via email) and children with hearing physically disabled adults. trade by four to one you are features, as well as those impairments. always leaning towards the that are of equal interest When new road schemes are minority group? Surely it to both. Unfortunately, this implemented we carry out an would be more sensible to give is not always possible as it extensive review of the traffic signal equal billing or even just let the depends on what the big timings. This takes into account the minicab trade know what is issues are at the time. change in traffic patterns that happen going on in their world? throughout the day. Wherever possible TfL meets regularly with private hire we use adaptive technology that alters Could you not be just a little trade representatives, including the the traffic light timings in response to Canine Partners Dogs for Good more transparent towards the GMB Union. the changing demands. PH trade, that has no real body Our 24-hour control centre continually to inform it of what’s occurring We would welcome more private hire ‘We wear purple jackets.’ ‘We wear green jackets.’ stories in the magazine, so please, monitors the network but we do unlike the taxi papers. appreciate that at busy times some if you or any other PH drivers have Canine Partners’ assistance Dogs for Good assistance congestion is unavoidable. dogs are for physically Geff Per (via email) anything you would like us to cover, dogs are for people with let us know at [email protected] Glynn Barton, interim director of road space disabled adults. physical disabilities, or management at TfL children with autism.

From our Twitter feed

Support Dogs Medical We say… You say… Taxi drivers can We have windscreen at @TfLTPH if the Steven Brown because new ‘We wear blue jackets.’ Detection Dogs find out about guidance for tfl.gov.uk/safetytips new electric cab via Twitter vehicle safety card payment drivers on is zero emission and passenger Assistance dogs for ‘We wear red jackets.’ device suppliers mounting capable, why The 15-year age amenity features physically disabled adults, on our website: navigation does it still need limit for taxis is are introduced Medical detection dogs are regularly seizure alert dogs for tfl.gov.uk/cards- devices without to be renewed because of their for adults and children with in-taxis obstructing the every 15 years? heavy use and people with epilepsy, and complex health conditions. autism assistance dogs for children with autism.

What is the UK’s How long would How many What is the What 1 most popular 2  it take to drive 3 parts does 4 best-selling car 5 percentage car colour to the moon? the average of all time? of London taxi Did you know it is against the law to refuse or charge a passenger more because they have an assistance dog? car have? drivers are

Taxi drivers or private hire drivers and operators doing so could risk losing their licence or facing a fine. women?

5. 5. 4. 3. 2.2 per cent cent per 2.2 Corolla Toyota The ,000 30

2. 1. Six months – if you drove in a straight line at 60mph at line straight a in drove you if – months Six Do you know? White 34 EVENTS CALENDAR CALENDAR EVENTS 35 Calendar

September October November

14 September British Basketball Baltimore Ravens I Love 1 October 6 October 9 October 18 October 26 October 2 November 10 November Micky Flanagan All-Stars vs Jackonsonville the 90s Olympia Runway 2017 Lady Gaga Emeli Sandé Little Mix John Bishop Stylist Live 2017 O2 Arena (until Championship Jaguars (NFL) Wembley Arena Beauty Show event O2 Arena O2 Arena O2 Arena O2 Arena Olympia (until 12 16 September) O2 Arena (until Wembley incorporating ExCeL Arena (and 11 October) (and 3 November) November) 24 September) Stadium 30 September Nailympia (until 8 October) 19 October 28 October 20 September Nick Cave and Olympia (until 10 October Diwali Saracens vs Brockwell Park 11 November 100% Design Hospitality in Ealing half The Bad Seeds 2 October) 7 October Lady Antebellum Celebrations London Irish fireworks display Lord Mayor’s 2017 event the Park and marathon O2 Arena Salon O2 Arena Neasden Temple rugby match Brockwell Park Show Olympia (until 23 Tranzmission Ealing New Orleans International Allianz Park City of London September) Finsbury Park NFL on Regent Saints vs Miami ExCeL Arena 13 October 20 October The Regent Street (until 24 October) 27 September Street Dolphins (NFL) (until 9 October) The Chocolate The Baby Show Daryl Hall and Motor Show England vs 22 September Lorde Regent Street Wembley Show London 2017 John Oates Regent Street Argentina rugby National Wedding ATP World Alexandra Palace pedestrianised Stadium 8 October 2017 Olympia O2 Arena match Show 2017 Tour finals 2017 Saracens vs Olympia (and 29 October) Barbarians vs Twickenham Olympia (until 24 (Tennis) England vs West 2 October Wasps rugby (until 15 October) Festival of Life New Zealand September) O2 Arena (until Indies cricket Restaurant Show match event 29 October rugby match 12 November 24 September) match (One Day and Conscious Allianz Park The Tenderloins ExCeL Arena Minnesota Vikings Twickenham Remembrance 23 September International) Hospitality Show Comedy Troupe vs Cleveland Day (Whitehall) Shine Night Walk Saracens vs Sale Oval 2017 Royal Parks O2 Arena 22 October Browns (NFL) 5 November Central London 2017 Sharks rugby Olympia (until Foundation Half Metallica O2 Twickenham Clapham (Southwark match 29 September 4 October) Marathon 15 October Arena Common World Tour finals Park – streets of Allianz Park Cake and Bake (Hyde Park J. Cole (and 24 October) 30 October fireworks display 2017 (Tennis) central London – Show 4 October Corner– Whitehall O2 Arena Spirit of (tbc) O2 Arena Old Billingsgate) 24 September ExCeL Arena Mid Autumn – Trafalgar Arizona Cardinals Christmas Japan Matsuri (until 1 October) Festival Square – 17 October vs Los Angeles incorporating the event (Chinatown) The Strand – Neil Diamond Rams (NFL) Luxury Travel Trafalgar Square Central London Melbourne Place O2 Arena Twickenham Fair 2017 – Pall Mall East – (and 19 October) Olympia Cockspur Street), Westminster