Perry Richardson

Private hire and taxi firms say the 2028 pay-per-mile levy could slow electric vehicle adoption despite fresh government support for charging and grants. The Government’s plan to introduce a road charge for electric and hybrid vehicles from April 2028 has drawn sharp criticism from leading operators in the private hire and chauffeur sectors, who warn the new measure risks derailing fleet electrification efforts already under strain. The Budget confirmed that electric vehicles will be subject...

The Government’s decision to rule out imposing 20% VAT on private hire vehicle journeys has been welcomed by major regional operator Veezu, which said the outcome provides long-needed stability for passengers, drivers and the wider sector. The announcement followed the publication of the Treasury’s formal response to its consultation on VAT treatment of PHVs, released on the Chancellor’s Budget Day. Veezu Chief Executive, Nathan Bowles, said the decision reflected the concerns of operators...

Image credit: GMP Traffic Greater Manchester Police carried out a targeted taxi compliance operation at Manchester Airport, issuing defect notices and making multiple referrals to licensing authorities after inspecting more than 40 vehicles. According to GMP’s traffic unit, officers issued traffic offence reports for issues including lighting and tyre defects. Six vehicles were flagged to local licensing teams for further action. The inspection formed part of ongoing work by the force’s...