What to expect in TaxiPoint’s June 2025 edition: Elly Baker Q&A, Edinburgh capping and marketing tips
- Perry Richardson
- Jun 2
- 2 min read
The June edition of TaxiPoint’s monthly magazine presents a full picture of the UK taxi industry at a critical juncture, with topics spanning policy, innovation, enforcement, and regional perspectives.
A feature interview with Elly Baker AM, Chair of the London Assembly Transport Committee, leads this month’s issue. Baker discusses the capital’s taxi trade, expressing frustration over TfL’s Action Plan and stressing the need for real intervention to tackle rising costs, driver shortages, and licensing issues. Her calls for a cap on private hire vehicles and greater devolution powers set the tone for discussions around trade sustainability.
From Edinburgh, a driver-led petition highlights growing concern over oversaturation. The campaign, which has gained significant support, demands a cap on private hire numbers. Drivers warn of falling earnings and increased pressure, raising the question of whether similar action is needed nationally.
Elsewhere in the issue, London cabbie Paul Buck has launched a new mortgage advice service tailored to self-employed drivers. The Mortgage Cabbie combines Buck’s financial expertise with his industry insight to support drivers struggling with traditional lenders.
In technology, iCabbi shares timely advice on how to market a taxi business effectively in 2025. Tips on SEO, email, text messaging and traditional advertising provide practical tools for fleets looking to stay competitive.
On the electrification front, FREENOW’s 2024 Sustainability Report shows major progress in London, where 78% of vehicles on its platform are now electrified. Outside the capital, uptake remains low, hindered by high costs and limited vehicle options. FREENOW has introduced charging partnerships to ease transition barriers, and it is calling for government-backed financial support to replicate Scotland’s interest-free loan model.
Uber’s readiness to launch driverless taxis also features, with the AV Act paving the way for deployment from 2026. However, insurance experts raise questions over safety and public acceptance, suggesting further scrutiny is needed before widespread rollout.
In enforcement, a rise in ‘crash for cash’ scams targeting taxi drivers is highlighted by Acorn Insurance, with key cities such as Birmingham, Bristol and London noted as hotspots. Drivers are advised to use dashcams and report suspicious incidents.
Government proposals to overhaul taxi and PHV licensing through Local Transport Authorities are explored in depth. The move aims to improve consistency and crack down on cross-border hiring practices that have long frustrated drivers and regulators alike.
Also featured are updates from regional licensing committees, enforcement operations, and new business launches. Highlights include Maize Transport’s focus on accessibility in the Northwest, a late-night compliance drive in Avon and Somerset, and a protest in Derby over strict new vehicle age limits.
The issue concludes with data from TfL showing a continued fall in London taxi numbers. If current trends persist, driver numbers could fall below 13,000 by 2029, raising urgent questions about the long-term viability of the trade.
