There is currently much commotion about Transport for London’s refusal to extend Uber’s taxi licence due to ongoing safety concerns. Specifically, unauthorised drivers were using the accounts of authorised drivers to complete trips; this happened more than 14,000 times.
If this decision is upheld, it will have huge implications for Uber and Londoners.
London is Uber’s most profitable European city, and Londoners depend on Uber to shelter them from the eye-watering prices of the Black Cabs.
Sure, Transport for London has justified concerns about commuter safety, but they also need Uber. Ride-sharing is a key part of the plan to reduce emissions in the capital. Entire programmes, like the introduction of the Ultra Low Emissions Zone, work towards encouraging more ride-sharing.
Uber’s shortcomings, in this instance, are substantial, but I make a prediction: Uber will be fine. They’ll commit to improving their safety procedures, and their London licence will be extended. There won’t be a day without Uber drivers on the roads.
P.S. Part of the fun of daily blogging is making public predictions, watching the world unfold, and then reflecting on them. Uber has 21 days to appeal Transport for London’s decision, so I’ll report back when there’s an answer!