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How To Make Sure ABC Taxis Are A Sustainable Transportation Option For Norwich

The development and evolution of electric vehicles and sustainable transportation are vital as it directly impacts both the environment and the well-being of the people of Norwich.

To achieve lower emissions ABC Taxis provide flexible transportation options from a fleet of hybrid and electric vehicles as well as offsetting our carbon emissions through partnerships with leading environmental initiatives like Ecologi. Our reliable taxi service is perfect for those without access to personal vehicles, as we offer a more effective and environmentally friendly option to get around your local area. This in turn helps reduce social isolation by enhancing access to local services and businesses which helps establish vibrant communities and reduces the effects that isolation can have on people’s mental health.

Reducing Private Car Use and Improving Public Health in Norwich

ABC Taxis are crucial to the Norwich transportation network by offering essential connectivity from one location to another, particularly when other public transport options are unavailable. By complementing public transport, ABC taxis help to reduce the use of private vehicles, which is a significant contributor to urban congestion and emissions. This impact is especially pronounced in areas with a higher-density of population because poorer air quality can significantly harm public health.

Switch to ABC Taxis for a More Sustainable and Stress-Free Commute in Norwich

Using ABC Taxis can also be a viable alternative to owning a personal vehicle as our simple online booking system and dedicated mobile phone apps provide you with the ability to dependably get to and from your destinations without the stress of owning a car. ABC Taxis are essential in helping Norwich make the transition to a more sustainable transportation system by helping to lessen people’s reliance on private vehicles. Less traffic congestion and a more environmentally friendly future for future generations will result from fewer cars on the road.

Dedicated to Improving Access to Services for the Elderly and Disabled

The elderly and disabled face significant transportation barriers that can prevent them from accessing essential services and businesses easily. Although ABC Taxis do not have any fully wheelchair-accessible vehicles in the fleet currently, we are able to accommodate disabled passengers who use collapsible wheelchairs/walking aids and we will always endeavour to prioritise the needs of all individuals, regardless of their mobility status.

Leading the Way to a Sustainable and Inclusive Norwich

ABC Taxis are dedicated to a more sustainable transport system in Norwich, and by complementing public transport and helping reduce the number of cars on the road we are moving in the right direction. Our dedication to improving access to services for the people of Norwich means we can reduce the reliance people have on personal cars, which is critical in reducing urban congestion and emissions. By providing accessible transportation, we can work together to build a more inclusive and livable neighbourhood and most importantly, one that is sustainable.

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What makes ABC Taxis the best option for Taxis in Norwich?

If you are looking for the best way to get around Norwich? Your best choice is ABC Taxis. The company boasts over 25 years of expertise serving the Norwich public with their transportation requirements. ABC Taxis provides a simple and dependable way to get from A to B and a number of additional benefits make them the first choice for anyone seeking a Taxi in Norwich. ABC has been the number one option for Taxis in Norwich for years thanks to its friendly accommodating driver partners, reasonable prices, and dedication to safety.

What are the benefits of using ABC Taxis?

As one of Norwich’s most dependable taxi services, ABC Taxis offers various services to meet your transportation requirements. The courteous and skilled driver partners that work with ABC Taxis will get you to your destination safely and in a timely manner. We ensure that all drivers are fully licenced, insured, and CRB-checked and that their vehicles are well-maintained, clean and tidy. We also provide our Taxi service at reasonable prices and offer convenient methods to book a taxi online through our mobile app and by phone. By booking in advance using one of these methods, you can take the stress out of getting around town. Just provide ABC Taxis with you’re starting location and destination and the time you wish to go, and our skilled driver partners will get you there. 

Should you require any assistance or have any questions regarding lost property or any part of our service our customer service line is always open and we have a comprehensive FAQ section that answers many of our customer queries. 

Plan ahead.

To avoid the stress of travel planning ahead is one of the best strategies to guarantee a stress-free experience. It is often beneficial to research your journey and establish the anticipated travel time before you book. Peak time and public holidays should be considered when planning your travel. Regardless of how far you have to travel, you can relax knowing that ABC Taxis will provide a comfortable ride, safe ride.

The best Taxi service in Norwich

If you’re heading to one of the many events happening in Norwich in 2023, ABC Taxis is the best taxi service in Norwich. Whether you’re perusing the stores in town visiting Norwich Market or taking in a performance at the Norwich Playhouse. You can rely on ABC Taxis to arrive on time and get you to your destination. Our team of friendly and dependable driver partners use state-of-the-art technology to ensure every part of our service is streamlined and easy to use. You can book a taxi online, by phone or by downloading the handy ABC Taxis mobile app.

Reliable and trustworthy Taxi service

It can be difficult to know who is the best taxi company, but with over 25 years in the industry, ABC Taxis is easily the number one choice for Norwich. Exceeding over 100,000 journeys every month our fleet of over 350 driver partners is set to continue to serve the residents of this fine city for many years to come. We provide a wide range of services, including local transportation, long journeys, and airport transfers. 

Should you wish to become a driver partner with ABC Taxis simply can fill out our online application or get in touch with us via phone or email for further details. Our driver partners benefit from flexible working hours and great earning potential and have the support of the friendly ABC Taxis team to help you get started. 

ABC Taxis is the first choice taxi service for Norwich thanks to our reliable and trustworthy driver partners, excellent customer service, and simple booking methods. So for all your transportation needs book a cab with ABC Taxis Norwich.

Read More: ABC Taxis 101 | All you need to know

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What is ABC Taxis doing to promote Green Energy in 2023?

Like most major cities, Norwich boasts a long and varied history of transportation. The city has always relied on diverse forms of transportation to connect its people and commodities to the outside world, from its early days as a Roman town through its mediaeval and modern expansion.

One of the first significant advancements in Norwich’s transportation history occurred in the middle of the 19th century, with the construction of The Great Yarmouth and Norwich Railway. This railway allowed for the convenient transportation of people and commodities between the two locations.

The arrival of cars, vans and lorries significantly impacted transportation in Norwich. With the construction of the Norwich Southern Bypass in the 1970s and the extension of the city’s bus network, transportation in Norwich underwent significant advancements in the 20th century. Essential roads and a park-and-ride system were introduced to ease traffic congestion in the city.

This is true in every major city throughout the world, so the adoption of green energy and the increase of electric vehicles on the road has therefore grown more crucial in recent years as the globe continues to struggle with the effects of climate change. In comparison to fossil fuels, green energy sources like solar, wind, and hydroelectricity generate electricity with little to no carbon emissions, making them a more environmentally friendly choice. Electric vehicles (EVs) are a cleaner and more environmentally friendly form of transportation because they are propelled by electrical energy rather than fossil fuels.

The ability of green energy and electric vehicles to help cut greenhouse gas emissions is one of the main reasons for ABC Taxis to expand its electric vehicle fleet in Norwich. Through our alliance with Ecologi, ABC Taxis has managed to save 364 tonnes of carbon from going into the atmosphere to date, planted 6,323 trees around the world and so far has managed to offset 903,084 miles driven in a traditional petrol/diesel vehicle.

This is achieved through a variety of programmes, projects, and climate solutions, and the funding ABC Taxis provides directly affects atmospheric CO2 levels. We have also added hybrid vehicles to the ABC fleet and have made significant investments in cutting-edge automotive technology in an effort to be more ecologically conscious.

For more information about how ABC Taxis is helping the environment through our partnership with Ecologi check out our Eco page.  If you are interested in becoming a driver partner with ABC Taxis then visit our Drive With ABC page. Should you wish to book a taxi then our online booking platform and mobile phone app are quick and easy to use for any other questions about ABC Taxis please visit our comprehensive FAQ section.

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Latest News: ABC Taxis becomes a part of the nationwide Veezu group

We are delighted to announce that ABC Taxis Norwich has recently joined Veezu.

ABC Taxis’ 350-vehicle fleet has been acquired by Veezu the Welsh digital hire operator as part of the company’s expansion into the East Anglian area.

ABC Taxis Norwich And Veezu Join Forces

This is an exciting opportunity for both passengers and driver-partners, as Veezu has committed to investing in cutting-edge technology in order to deliver an even better passenger service and driving experience for our driver-partners.

“We are delighted to welcome ABC Taxis Norwich driver-partners and their passengers to Veezu. We’re focused on assisting driver-partners in giving the best service possible to their passengers and ensuring ABC Taxis Norwich remains at the center of the community.”

– Veezu

This latest acquisition will provide driver-partners with access to state-of-the-art technology that will help them enhance their efficiency and earn more money. The acquisition is part of Veezu’s expansion plan into East Anglia, which also included the purchase of Panther Taxis in Cambridge.

CEO of Veezu Nathan Bowles highlights that the takeover will greatly improve the level of service offered to passengers. He says “we are focused on continually improving our service to give passengers what they want, and right now partnering with more drivers with the latest technology will help us give their passengers the best service possible,” 

ABC Taxis is a firm that employs 350 driver-partners and recently celebrated its 25th anniversary. The company was started by Simon Callender, Dave Hall, and Paul Walker, but before the trio came together in 1994, Mr. Hall was a cabbie at Beeline Taxis, Mr. Walker was at Bestway Taxis, and Mr Callender ran an antique shop. But the three shared a united vision and ABC Taxis was formed.

The ABC Taxis Norwich team is set to remain the same and will continue to deliver excellent customer service, with local expertise, and community support.

Simon Callender, Director of ABC Taxis states “This is an exciting phase in the ABC Taxis journey, Veezu values exceptional service and community support, both of which have always been important to us”

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How ABC Taxis are driving into a cleaner, greener future.

Here at ABC Taxis, we are proud to be setting the standard in effective, reliable, first-class transportation. From our base here in Norwich, we have a keen focus on promoting a cleaner, greener environment in the interest of the next generation.

With climate change already an alarming problem, ABC Taxis is doing its bit to contribute to the solution. One BBC article reports that a regular taxi emits 210 grams of CO2 per kilometre, whilst coaches only emit 27g and an average petrol car emits 180g per km. Fortunately, ABC Taxi’s planet-saving eco-fleet is more than just ordinary taxis. Or should we say less?

Changes in the climate and its subsequent effects are becoming more and more evident so ABC Taxis is doing its part to help with the solution. According to the BBC, conventional taxis emit around 210g of CO2 into the atmosphere per kilometre and your average petrol car releases around 180g. This is where ABC Taxis prides itself in being more than your regular taxi service. Many of our vehicles have emission levels as low as 86 g/km thanks to advanced hybrid car technology.

What are hybrid vehicles?

In order to maximise fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions, hybrid vehicles intelligently transition between electric and gasoline engines. With seamless transitions from gasoline to electricity at lower speeds, vehicles like our Toyota Prius emit significantly less carbon dioxide when stuck in traffic or travelling through suburban areas. Our vehicles all charge their electric motors while their petrol engines are running, reducing the amount of energy needed to refuel our cars at charging stations.

Impact on Emissions

By transitioning to a hybrid vehicle fleet ABC Taxis has so far been able to offset 836,097 miles of car travel and save 337 tonnes of carbon from entering the atmosphere.  Currently, we have  300 green cars and that number will increase as we focus fully on the future and the environment at ABC Taxis, and continue to focus on reducing the amount of carbon we discharge into the atmosphere.

Why so eco-minded?

It is ubiquitously heard. A climate emergency exists right now. Scientists estimate that the harm we are doing to the earth will be irreparable if it continues at the rate of increase for the next 5-10 years. Transport accounts for 50% of carbon emissions in the UK and this is why ABC Taxis has made the decision to act RIGHT AWAY. As one of the UK’s most stunning green places and biodiverse ecosystems, Norfolk is a national leader in green energy research. ABC Taxis has the power and obligation to make a genuine impact on the future of our planet.

Where we’re going…

We’ll be driving you on eco-friendly trips for years to come with our clean, effective taxis. Book ABC Taxis over the phone, through the ABC Taxis app, via Facebook Messenger, or through our online booking system for a sustainable taxi ride from a business that cares about the future! By travelling with us, you can join us in our efforts to reduce our carbon footprint.

Because of our collaboration with Ecologi, ABC Taxis is still fully committed to reducing its carbon footprint. Through a variety of programmes, projects, and climate solutions, the money ABC Taxis donates directly affects atmospheric CO2 levels. In an effort to be more ecologically conscious, we have added hybrid vehicles to the ABC fleet and have made significant investments in cutting-edge automotive technology.

With over 300 eco-friendly vehicles in our fleet, you can be sure that ABC Taxis is taking every step to provide you with the best taxi service possible with as little impact on the environment as possible.

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Have you met our fleet of eco-friendly cars?

With climate change already an alarming problem, ABC Taxis are doing our bit to contribute to the solution. One BBC article reports that a regular taxi emits 210 grams of CO2 per kilometre, whilst coaches only emit 27g and an average petrol car emitting 180g per km. Fortunately, ABC Taxis planet-saving eco-fleet are more than just ordinary taxis. Or should we say less?


Using cutting-edge engineering, many of our vehicles have cut down emissions to volumes as low as 86 g/km. This is all possible with hybrid vehicle technology.

Introducing hybrid vehicles?

Put simply, hybrid vehicles are cars which are both electric and petrol engines that intelligently switch from one to the other to maximise fuel efficiency and minimise carbon emissions. Cars like our Toyota Prius will seamlessly switch from petrol to electric during at slower speeds, eliminating the extra carbon emitted during traffic jams and driving in suburban areas. More high-tech additions to our vehicles are their self-charging implements. All of Toyota’s hybrid vehicles charge their electric engines when their petrol engines are in use, decreasing the energy consumed by charging our vehicles at electric charging stations.

Environmental Consequences

With the reduction of fuel consumption allowed by our hybrid vehicles, we’ve so far managed to offset 317,766 miles driven in a car and save 128 tonnes of carbon going into the atmosphere. That’s with our 150 eco-friendly vehicles. With ABC Taxis going full throttle with our focus on the future and our environment, that number is only going to get bigger, with the carbon we release into the atmosphere getting smaller. 

We hear it everywhere. We are in a climate emergency. According to scientists, we have until 2030 until our damage to the planet is irreversible. In the UK, 50% of carbon emissions are due to transport. This is why ABC Taxis have decided to do something NOW. With Norfolk being a national leader in green energy research as well as home to one of the UK’s most beautiful green spaces and biodiverse eco-systems, ABC Taxis have both the means and the responsibility to make a real difference to the future of our planet.

The Delorean DMC isn’t the only kind of car that’ll bring us to the future. With our clean, efficient, eco-friendly taxis, we’ll be taking you on sustainable journeys for years to come.  

For a sustainable taxi journey from a company that cares about the future, book ABC Taxis through the phone, ABC Taxis app, Facebook messenger or our online booking system! We’ve taken our steps towards reducing our carbon footprint, take yours by riding with us.

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ABC Taxis Quiz | Put Your Norfolk Slang to the test!

Ar yer orrite bor?

Norfolk’s dialect is rich with slang terms that put our individual stamp on the English language. Even if you haven’t been here long, you’re bound to pick up a few. Even if you haven’t been to Norfolk at all, some of our words have ventured out! Ever been frazzled? Norfolk invented being frazzled. So you don’t get yourself lost in a loke, ABC Taxis has put together a Norfolk slang quiz. Shouldn’t be too hard, right?

Hope you had fun with our quiz! There are plenty of ways to get better with your Norfolk Slang. Friends of Norfolk Dialect (FOND) has a fantastic glossary and a library of interesting books on the subject. Of course, there’s no better way than to just get out there and see the county for yourself. For taking a trip to deeper Norfolk, just give ABC Taxis a ring or a message!

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An In-Depth Look At Our Eco Fleet

At ABC Taxis, we prioritise efficiency as well as the comfort of our drivers and passengers alike. As a company, we are conscious of the effects of road transportation on the environment. That is why our eco fleet of taxis consists entirely of top-of-the-range hybrid cars and efficient minivans. Curious about our eco vehicles? Join us on an in-depth tour of their key specifications and highlights to find out what makes them comfortable, efficient, and environmentally friendly. 

(Please note that all of the below vehicles are available with a variety of options, and we have selected particular ones to give you an idea of their specifications. The below specifications do not apply to all of our cars.)

Toyota Auris Estate

toyota auris estate
The Toyota Auris Estate, via Auto Trader

The Toyota Auris Touring Sports (aka estate) hybrid is well-known as a reliable and competent vehicle. The more recent revival of the Corolla in hybrid form (which also features in our fleet), has largely replaced the Auris as Toyota’s go-to hybrid car. However, the Auris still has many admirable features, including its unfussy, functional design and spacious interior. 

The Auris hybrid is often complimented for how relaxing it is to drive thanks to its supple suspension and minimal noise both inside and out. It also has a spacious boot which makes it perfect for taking passengers to the airport or train station. 

Specifications (1.8L VVT-i Hybrid):

Power 134bhp / 100 kW
Battery capacity6.5 Ah
Top Speed112 mph
0-60 mph11 secs
CO293 g/km 
Emissions standardEuro 5
Fuel consumption70 mpg
Luggage Capacity507 L

Because the Auris has been around since 2009, it is not the most efficient of the hybrid vehicles available today. However, Toyota is a trailblazer in the world of electric cars, having released the first hybrid Prius in 1997. The Japanese manufacturer has proven time and time again that they are committed to constant innovation, and this can be seen in the newer hybrid Corollas. 

Toyota Corolla Estate 

toyota corolla estate landscape
The Toyota Corolla Hybrid, via Carbuyer

Named Car of the Year 2020: Hybrid Winner by WhatCar?, the Toyota Corolla Estate Hybrid is an undeniable industry leader. The especially efficient and smooth-driving new models have taken the Hyundai Ioniq’s place at the top of the ranks. Unsurprisingly, the car has excellent reviews, with frequently mentioned pros including its efficiency, super smooth handling, seamless transitions between electric petrol and electric power, spacious interior, and roomy boot. 

Specifications (1.8L VVT-i Hybrid):

Power 120 bhp
Battery capacity3.6 Ah
Top Speed111 mph
0-60 mph8.5 secs
CO276 to 83 g/km 
Emissions standardEuro 6 AM
Fuel consumption55.4 to 65.9 mpg 
Luggage Capacity598 L

Hyundai Ioniq

Many of our cabs at ABC taxis are Hyundai IONIQ Hybrids

The Hyundai Ioniq is also a leader in its field and a muti-award-winning one at that. The best thing about this hybrid vehicle is its ability to drive on electric power only, and therefore to travel decent distances (up to 39 miles for the Plug-In Hybrid) with zero emissions. In many ways, it is similar to the Kia Niro – both cars are sold in three electrified forms: a hybrid model (petrol engine + electric motor), a plug-in hybrid (with a bigger battery that can be charged externally for more range), and a pure electric vehicle (EV). 

Unlike many hybrids, which are fitted with CVT, single-speed gearboxes, both versions of the Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid have a six-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, making it much smoother and quieter than the average CVT. The interior design of the Ioniq furthers the car’s exceptional efficiency, with lightweight materials selected specially to reduce the vehicle’s weight and fuel consumption. The car also has great aerodynamics, with a class-leading drag coefficient of only 0.24. 

Specifications (Hybrid 1.6 GDI):

Power 141 bhp
Battery capacity1.56 kWh
Top Speed115 mph
0-60 mph10.8 secs
CO284 g/km 
Emissions standardEuro 6d-Temp
Fuel consumption78.5 mpg 
Luggage Capacity443 L

Toyota Prius

A Prius+ hybrid car, via Toyota

As we have already mentioned, the hybrid Prius has been around for over 20 years, and it has evolved significantly over that time. Named Green Car of the Year 2016 by Auto Express, the Prius can drive at up to 36mph on electricity alone when sufficiently charged (if you’re gentle on the accelerator), meaning it is exceptionally quiet and relaxed for driving in the city. 

At motorway speeds, the petrol engine kicks in for additional power, but drivers say this is unobtrusive and still relatively quiet, emitting little more than a faint drone during steady driving. If you floor the accelerator, however, the CVT gearbox will send the revs shooting up and cause some engine boom. The Prius Hybrid is popular for its low servicing costs and excellent fuel economy, even when set to four-wheel drive. The Prius is also the most efficient non-plug-in hybrid. 

Specifications (1.8L Petrol Hybrid Automatic):

Power 122 bhp
Battery capacity7.2 Ah
Top Speed112 mph
0-62 mph10.8 secs
CO275 – 84 g/km 
Emissions standardEuro 6DG
Fuel consumption59.6 – 67.3mpg 
Luggage Capacity502 L

Mercedes-Benz Vito 

The Mercedes Vito Panel Van, via Motor1

The Mercedes Vito is a popular minivan among taxi firms, as it is designed to be ideal for urban operations and frequent recurring trips in terms of its efficiency. There are many options to choose from in the Mercedes Vito range, including diesel engines, the fully electric eVito, panel, crew, and tourer vans, and even the black cab edition. 

The Vito Tourer van offers comfortable seating for up to 9 people, as well as plenty of room for luggage. It’s available in various options, including three vehicle lengths and two trim lines, meaning the van is customisable and versatile. Many of these models include BlueEFFICIENCY packages as standard, meaning they come with smart eco features such as ECO start/stop which turns of the engine when stationary, a smart alternator which recharges the battery when coasting or braking, and rolling-resistance optimised tyres.  

Specifications (114 Tourer Pro L2 Auto):

Power 102 bhp
Battery capacity N/A
Top Speed120 mph
0-60 mph11.8 secs
CO2171 g/km 
Emissions standardEuro E6
Fuel consumption44 mpg 
Luggage Capacity550 L

KIA Niro 

Kia Niro

When talking about efficient cars and especially top-of-the-range hybrids, the KIA Niro is another one that is sure to be mentioned. Thanks to its SUV-like design, the Niro has a comfortable, spacious interior that allows for a natural seating position in the front and the back, as well as an excellent view of the road. 

The Niro Plug-In Hybrid, like most EVs, is practically silent in electric mode, and even its fuel engine is very quiet, making it very pleasant to drive. The regular hybrid, too, is often praised for the seamless (and nearly imperceptible) way the petrol engine and electric motor work together via its six-speed automatic gearbox. Like most hybrids, it also has a regenerative braking system to recover energy. 

Specifications (1.6 GTI Hybrid 3):

Power 139 bhp
Battery capacity8.9 to 15.6 kWh
Top Speed101 mph
0-60 mph11.1 secs
CO2100 g/km 
Emissions standardEuro 6
Fuel consumption65.7 mpg 
Luggage Capacity382 L

Summary

By riding with ABC Taxis, you can rest assured that the utmost care has been taken to ensure efficiency and comfort. We care not only about customer satisfaction, but we are also committed to doing our part to reduce non-renewable energy consumption, harmful emissions, and even noise pollution thanks to our expertly selected fleet of eco-cars.

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A Brief History of British Taxis

When most people think about England, certain images like the Big Ben, the queen, red phone booths, double-decker buses, and black cabs will undoubtedly spring to mind. The taxi is as much a British phenomenon as afternoon tea or Sunday roast, having driven people from point A to point B since the 17th century. 

Millions of people rely on taxis to get around, but where did they come from? Join us on a ride through history as we uncover the complete journey of the taxicab in London. 

Beginnings: The Original Hackney Coach 

The first taxi was the simple horse-drawn carriage known as a Hackney Coach. (Of course, Hackney was the area of London notorious for its stables.) The concept was born during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, when wealthy Londoners struggled to keep up with the costs of maintaining horses, coaches, and drivers, and began to capitalise on their investments by making their coaches available for hire by lesser members of the gentry.

 

Depiction of an original four-wheeled Hackney Carriage, circa 19th century.

The First Taxi Rank

In 1625, there were around 20 Hackney Coaches for hire, operating largely out of inns and hotels. By 1634, a wealthy Londoner by the name of Captain John Bailey came up with a new, more systematic idea which seems so familiar to us now: the taxi rank. 

Bailey owned four Hackney carriages, which operated from the Maypole Inn, and charged set tariffs for travel to different areas of London. He began a system for his cabs, making drivers follow certain rules and regulations, and decorating the carriages in eye-catching designs for recognition from customers. This is arguably when taxicabs transformed from a local phenomenon to a much more commercially-minded business. 

Dropping Wheels: A New Design

Hackney carriages remained pretty much identical to how they were first developed for about two centuries, until they saw a significant transformation in 1823. A new, faster carriage with only two wheels arrived from France. Its name came along too, with the French word cabriolet quickly evolving into our still commonly used ‘cab’ and ‘cabbie’. 

The French model was adopted in England, most prominently influencing Joseph Aloysius Hansom of York to design and patent the notorious two-wheeled Hansom Cab. The Hansom Cab rapidly gained popularity and began to replace the Hackney Carriage, offering more stability and speed than its predecessor. They could be drawn by one horse alone, improving cost-effectiveness. Another major innovation in the taxi business around this time was the introduction of taximeters, which used mechanical clockwork to measure fares according to distance. 

The Hansom cab also offered far more convenience for passengers, with a more protective cab, folding wooden doors to protect passengers from the elements, a roof hatch for communicating with and paying the driver, and a driver’s lever allowing him to open the doors for passengers. Hansom Cabs were very successful and continued to operate in London as well as other cities in the British Empire until the introduction of motor vehicles in the early 1900s. 

Premature Futurism: The First Electric Cab 

The Bersey, named after Walter C Bersey, was built in 1897 by the London Electrical Cab Company. It was the first attempt at commercialising electric taxis in the UK. Bersey cabs used traction batteries which were suspended from springs under the vehicle, and could travel up to 12mph. It weighed about 2 tonnes and could cover about 30 miles on a single full charge. 

Unfortunately, like most prototypes, the cabs were overly expensive, heavy, and unreliable, leading to several road accidents. The car was known as the ‘Hummingbird’ for the noise it made, but the name was not around for long. The vehicle quickly fell out of favour with taxi drivers and customers, and was abandoned entirely by 1900. Interestingly, electric cabs did not return to London’s streets until last decade (over a century later). 

The Introduction of Motors

In 1903, London cabs began to use combustion engines, which were far more reliable than their electric predecessors. The first examples of engine-powered cabs to appear in London included the prominent French Prunel, as well as British models called the Rational, Simplex, and Herald. 

In WWI, production of taxis came to a standstill while manufacturers switched to military production for the war effort. It was the 1920’s before London taxis were developed further and new cab designs appeared on the streets. There have been many variations and innovations of the London taxi, but the 1948 Austin FX3 is considered to have inspired the distinct style of current cabs. 

Although the Austin FX3 had many rivals, it dominated the streets of London, and so did its new and improved 1958 successor, the FX4. By 1997, London Taxis International developed the TX1 model, followed by the TX2 in 2002. These models saw significantly improved interiors, allowing for far more passenger comfort as well as additions like digital screens. The latest variant, the TX4, will be the last of engine-powered London cabs. 

Back To Electric

With increasing concern surrounding fossil fuels and emissions, and increasing pressure to innovate, the electric London taxi is making a big comeback. Zero-emissions is the new standard, and taxi manufacturers are keeping up with electric models like the LEVC TX and the Ecotive Metrocab.

More and more vehicles use electric energy rather than petrol around the country and the world, and this includes black cabs as well as taxis. Hopefully, passengers, drivers, and fleet owners alike will continue to drive innovation in more eco-friendly, sustainable transportation solutions. At ABC Taxis Norwich, for example, we are committed to doing our part to make a change thanks to our up-to-date fleet of eco-cars. 

Thank you for joining us on a journey through the ages, all the way back to the Elizabethan era when the first Hackney carriages were born, to the electric cars of the future. Happy cabbing!

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Top Tips for Brand New Taxi Drivers

Life as an ABC taxi driver is an open door to new experiences. You’ll get to see every inch of Norwich as you drive people to where they want to go. You will be an integral part of peoples’ journeys to and from their destinations, and whether or not they arrive at their destinations promptly, and satisfied with their journeys. However, the job you’re taking on is also not without risk. While most members of the public are regular, everyday people looking to get from one location to another, it’s also without doubt that some will attempt to exploit, rob or harm you. Here are some top tips for brand new drivers to ensure that you’re providing the best service you possibly can, whilst also remaining as safe as you possibly can.

Know Your Area

One of the keys to providing an excellent taxi service is to know the area in which you operate like the back of your hand. While the days of taxi drivers needing this knowledge in the most literal sense are gone, your sat nav won’t always be reliable or accurate, and your passengers still want to arrive at their destinations, rather than a five-minute walk away. Studying the area you’re covering will provide you with an instant vault of knowledge to access that will vastly improve your service, allowing you to pick the best routes that will allow your passengers to reach their destinations in the most timely possible manner.

Kick the Tyre

Make sure to check your vehicle inside and out before you start your shift. Hopping into the driver’s seat and taking off like a rocket is a surefire way to burden yourself with equipment failures and car trouble along the way, wasting time that could be better spent ferrying potential passengers. Taxis are constantly in use and in service, so the potential for failures is much higher than your regular old car. In order to provide the best possible service, perform a quick roster of checks every time you start a shift.

Be Alert

While driving a taxi might feel exactly the same as driving your own car, you’re providing a service to others. Careful driving is even more essential in your taxi than it is when you’re off the clock. Remain alert at all times to goings-on on the road and on the pavement so that you and your passengers are as safe as you can possibly be.

Keep it Clean

No one wants to step into a taxi and be assaulted by unwelcome smells and dirt. While you might let your personal car fill up with empty takeaway bags, coffee cups and empty packets, your taxi should be a haven of cleanliness to ensure that your passengers have the most pleasant possible experience. And that goes for cleaning up their mess too. Taxi driving isn’t all sunshine and roses, and sometimes grubby passengers will leave their mess for you to clean up. Keeping on top of this is a chore, but a necessary one for the comfort of your passengers and for the reputations of you and ABC.

Cash Bags and Receipt Pads

While ABC is a thoroughly modern company, with its fleet of electric cars and digital payment system, there are many who still carry cash on them, and they’ll want to use it in your taxi. Keeping bags of cash and change is a necessity for any driver, and keeping them well-organised is even better. This will allow you to deliver change to your passengers as quickly and efficiently as possible, saving dead time between journeys and increasing your efficiency.

Don’t Flash the Cash

Another undeniable factor in taxi driving is your susceptibility to crime. Taxi drivers operate at all hours of the day and night, and while most people are perfectly kind, courteous and pleasant, there’s a chance you’ll run into some unsavoury characters. Those looking to rob taxis are almost always looking for cash. They know there’s a good chance you have it on you. This is another reason why it’s so necessary to keep your cash well organised; it allows you to conceal it more effectively. It’s best not to discuss how much cash you may or may not have on you with any passenger, they might be sizing you up to see if they can attempt a robbery.

Study Emergency Procedures

In the event of any emergency during your shift, it’s vital to be aware of safety procedures. These procedures are there to help you deal with any emergency you might encounter, and following them is the best way to resolve any issue quickly and effectively. Being able to recall these procedures accurately and implement them competently is the mark of an excellent taxi driver. It’s not just about commitment to the daily rigors of the job, it’s knowing exactly what to do in an emergency, and keeping a cool head and a steady hand whilst doing so.

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