Could virtual taxi ranks become a practical solution or an unnecessary fix to something that isn’t broken?
- Perry Richardson
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
As cabbies and regulators explore ways to improve how taxis operate, the idea of “virtual ranks” has been touched on in discussions among drivers, licensing authorities and platform providers in the past. These digital queues allow drivers to join a rank without being physically present. Instead of waiting in a line at a designated location, drivers can show as available in multiple virtual locations across an area.
At first glance, the concept seems appealing. For passengers, it could reduce waiting times, especially at ranks often left empty. For drivers, it may offer a more flexible way to operate, enabling them to cover several traditional ranks or zones while stationed at a single point. But not everyone is convinced, with many questioning whether the traditional rank system even needs to change.
For drivers, the obvious benefit of a virtual rank is visibility, well not physically visibility that is. If they can be seen as available at more than one pick-up point, the chances of securing a fare may improve. There’s also the efficiency angle — less driving around looking for busy ranks means less fuel used and fewer emissions. In theory, this could help with both time and money.
However, virtual ranks bring their own set of complications. The most pressing is cost. Any digital system needs a platform, and platforms cost money to run. Who pays? That remains unclear. If it’s the driver, the benefits may be outweighed by yet another regular charge coming out of their takings.
There are also concerns about fairness and transparency. A physical rank is simple. First in line takes the fare. A virtual rank relies on data and algorithms. Without careful oversight, drivers could feel the system is biased or open to abuse. Questions around how drivers are positioned in the virtual queue will need clear answers if trust is to be built.
From the passenger side, virtual ranks could reduce the frustration of waiting at an empty rank. Instead, a taxi shown as close by and ready to collect could improve the overall experience. That said, there is a risk of confusion. If passengers see a rank sign, they may expect a vehicle to be waiting there. If no cab appears, they may lose faith in the system altogether and whilst digital visibility is high, physical visibility would likely diminish.
There’s also the question of enforcement. A traditional rank has a visible line, making it easy for marshals or local officers to see who’s where. Virtual ranks would need new tool for monitoring and rule-setting.
For the wider trade, virtual ranks could help balance supply and demand, especially when it comes to servicing less used ranks. But they must not come at the expense of the systems that already work. If a rank outside a station or shopping centre is always full and serves passengers well, many will argue there’s no need to replace it with a tech-heavy version.
In the end, the idea of virtual ranks will likely appeal in areas where traditional ranks have failed or been removed. But for locations where the physical rank still performs, the appetite for change may be low. The success of any digital option will rest not just on the tech, but on how fair, affordable and effective it proves to be for both sides of the meter.
