The European Commission has adopted “guidance notes” for national and local authorities on regulating taxis and private hire vehicles.
It clarifies how internal market rules should be applied to taxis and private hire vehicles, and how appropriate regulation can make these services more sustainable, accessible, and fair.
For instance, the guidance advises against regulation leading to empty runs, such as an obligation for private hire vehicles to return to garage in between rides or geographical restrictions that prevent drivers from taking passengers on return trips from remote locations.
The EC says it encourages ‘pooling’ of passengers, more sustainable vehicle fleets, and integration with public transport and active mobility.
It also emphasises that requirements to become a driver and operating conditions should be simple and proportionate.
Commenting, Commissioner for Transport, Adina Valean, said: “Integration with public mobility, less empty runs and encouraging pooling of passengers are all part of today’s guidance.”
“With it we try to ensure good service for customers across Europe as well as fair, safe and more sustainable operations.”
Follow EU Today on Social media:
