It’s that easy, and so many driver-partners are already benefiting from our flexible hours and app-based system. We have incredible incentives for new driver-partners, full induction is provided, as well as an ABC starter pack. The flexible hours allow for a healthy work and home life balance. So visit our Drive With ABC page and start your journey to becoming a driver-partner for Norwich and Norfolk’s most successful taxi firm today.
Blog
How ABC Taxis are driving into a cleaner, greener future.
Reading Time: 3minutes
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.
Blog
ABC Taxis Click and Collect Service
Reading Time: 4minutes
With continued uncertainty surrounding COVID-19 lockdown restrictions over the following months, and with current measures and restrictions in place to reduce the spread of coronavirus it means, we again have to stay indoors.
Guidelines state that we should only go outside to shop for essential items and collecting medication. Those who are able to should work from home. For the added convenience, and as a measure of safety, many have made use of online shopping services for their groceries. However, supermarkets and pharmacies are now struggling to keep up with the demand and there is an increasing lack of delivery slots available. This puts our elderly and our vulnerable more at risk, as they have been advised to self-isolate for 12 weeks.
ABC Taxis are doing our part ease lockdown life for those stuck at home with our new click and collect service. We’ve introduced the new feature to our mobile phone app that provides users with the ability to book a taxi to collect groceries, pharmaceuticals, takeaways and more on your behalf. Our drivers will pick up your goods from any supermarket, chemist or local independent store and deliver your items directly to your address.
As long as you have pre-paid for your shopping from the store, you can use the ABC Taxis mobile phone app to send a taxi to collect it. Simply follow the easy steps to use the ABC Taxis click and Collect service.
A. Download the ABC Taxis App
Our app is available from the Apple Store and Google Play and uses Strong Customer Authentication that takes a small amount from your registered bank account to verify the authenticity of the account. More information about this process can be found in our frequently asked questions.
B. Click the cart button
Download the ABC Taxis passenger app and click the Cart icon to use our click and collect service.
Once you have successfully registered on the ABC Taxis app navigate to the top right-hand corner to the shopping trolley icon and open the menu.
Fill out the details on our mobile app and take advantage of the ABC Taxis click and collect service.
Here you will be presented with a number of fields required for you to book your collection service. Simply populate the form with;
‘Delivery pickup location’
‘Delivery drop-off location’
Your name
The type of delivery
Order Tracking ID
Payment method
If you wish you can add any additional delivery instructions for the driver
C. Book your collection and delivery
Track your taxi in real time on the ABC Taxis Mobile App.
Click Book Now and you will receive confirmation that your groceries are on their way. You can also track your delivery in real-time using the interactive dynamic map provided. Our drivers will follow strict social distancing measures and ensure that you receive your items in a timely and professional manner.
Supporting the local economy
Are you a small business owner in Norwich that wants to offer your customers a click and collect service? Take advantage of the ABC Taxis mobile phone app click and collect service to drive your business through the Winter. We promise to do everything in our power to ensure that your customers are able to get your product through these difficult times.
Simply download the app from Google Play or Apple Store, order a taxi using our click and collect service and have our driver pick up the items directly from your business and drop them off at your customer’s address. You can even streamline the process by setting up a business account with us.
Supporting the Environment
ABC Taxis ae proud partners of Ecologi.
With over 250 vehicles in the ABC taxi fleet and heavily invested in reducing our carbon footprint, we have seen the addition of hybrid vehicles to the fleet increase drastically over the last few years. Most recently we have teamed up with Ecologi a partnership that allows ABC Taxis to provide direct support to environmental initiatives, projects and climate solutions. The impact that ABC Taxis funding has on the environment is quantified by our carbon offset, and this is facilitated through the planting of new forests around the world. More information on the work of Ecologi, the volume of trees planted and even purchase orders for the land where the forests are located can all be found on the Ecologi website. For more information about the positive impact, ABC Taxis is having on the environment visit our dedicated Eco Page.
Blog
ABC Taxis 101 | All you need to know
Reading Time: 3minutes
Welcome to ABC Taxis 101 and everything you need to know to be confident travelling with us during these uncertain times. The measurements and guidelines put in place by the government at this time are restrictive and often confusing. But maintaining safe, distanced social interactions and supporting the events, restaurants and establishments that are trying to survive within the stringent government legislation is vital. To both the livelihood of the employees, performers, organisers and venues.
So wherever you choose to travel and spend your time, do so safely and within the Government guidelines. When it comes to going to and from your destinations, ABC taxis have got you covered with our top 10 most frequently asked questions.
Can I book a taxi for more than 4 people?
Yes. The ABC fleet boasts a number of 8 seater minibuses that are available for up to 6 passengers at a time under the current Government legislation.
Do I have to wear a mask?
All customers are now advised to please wear face-coverings when traveling with ABC Taxis.
Do I have to wear a mask if I am exempt?
All of our drivers have been briefed regarding medical exemptions. Customers need only to state this upon entering the vehicle and showing the relevant documentation.
Relevant documentation includes exemption cards that are available through the Uk Government website and the increasingly popular sunflower lanyards.
Does ABC have safety measures in place for the spread of Covid-19?
Yes absolutely! The safety and health of our customers & drivers is paramount and we have numerous safety measures in place to tackle the spread of the virus. These include;
Vehicle safety screens
Daily disinfecting procedures
PPE
Automated payment system
Can you deliver shopping to our house?
Although we are quite happy to take a passenger to the shop and wait for them to complete their shopping before safely bringing them home. We are unable to offer a personal shopping facility.
What are your opening times?
We are open 24/7, 365 days a year.
Do you have wheelchair accessible vehicles at ABC Taxis?
We are able to accommodate any passengers who use collapsible wheelchairs/walking aids but unfortunately we do not have any wheelchair accessible vehicles at ABC Taxis.
Do you have a booking App?
Our passenger app is available from the Google Play store and Apple.
Yes! There are a number of ways you can pay for your fare by card;
Pay when you make a booking through our call centre
Pay in the vehicle via SMS
Pay at the end of the journey
Pay by linking your card within the booking app on your mobile phone
How does pre-authentication work on our passenger app?
The new ABC Taxis Passenger app utilises a number of Anti-Fraud measures, including, but not limited to Biometrics (in the case of Apple and Google Pay) and 3dSecure. These processes use Strong Customer Authentication – an initiative being rolled out by the Financial Conduct Authority – and all banks need to sign up to use Strong Customer Authentication by September 2021.
ABC Taxis are required to initiate a pre-authorisation so that the requirements of SCA can be fulfilled.
The pre-authorisation action forces the bank to consider the use of 3dSecure to verify the transaction. Without this step, 3dSecure would not be used, which could lead to an increase in card fraud. Second to this, the pre-authorisation amount taken ensures that customers have the funds available in advance of the journey.
The actual amount of the pre-authorisation is the Estimated Fare + 15%.
The pre-authorisation amount is more than the estimated journey amount because the fare quoted is just that – an estimate. The fare in-vehicle may exceed the estimated amount, or the passenger may choose to go via a different point or change their destination altogether. By taking an additional amount this ensures that in most cases, the actual fare will fall within the pre-authorised amount. Where this happens, any amount over the actual fare will be released at the end of the journey.
Please note that banks can take up to 5 working days to release a ‘pre-authorisation’ hold on funds.
The following prices are to and from the UEA Campus area;
SUPERMARKETS
CAR
MINIBUS
ALDI Larkman Lane
£6.00
£9.00
ASDA Drayton High Rd
£7.50
£11.50
LIDL Drayton Rd
£7.50
£11.50
MORRISONS, Albion Way
£7.50
£11.50
SAINSBURYS Queens Rd
£7.50
£11.50
TESCO Fiveways
£6.00
£9.00
TESCO Harford Bridge
£8.00
£12.00
AIRPORTS
Gatwick
£190.00
£250.00
Heathrow
£185.00
£245.00
Norwich
£13.00
£18.00
Luton
£140.00
£210.00
Stansted
£105.00
£150.00
STATIONS
Bus Station
£6.50
£10.00
Train Station
£7.00
£10.50
HOTSPOTS
Prince Of Wales
£6.50
£10.00
Riverside Complex
£7.00
£10.50
Prices correct at time of article – October 2020
Blog
An In-Depth Look At Our Eco Fleet
Reading Time: 5minutes
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
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 capacity
6.5 Ah
Top Speed
112 mph
0-60 mph
11 secs
CO2
93 g/km
Emissions standard
Euro 5
Fuel consumption
70 mpg
Luggage Capacity
507 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
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 capacity
3.6 Ah
Top Speed
111 mph
0-60 mph
8.5 secs
CO2
76 to 83 g/km
Emissions standard
Euro 6 AM
Fuel consumption
55.4 to 65.9 mpg
Luggage Capacity
598 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 capacity
1.56 kWh
Top Speed
115 mph
0-60 mph
10.8 secs
CO2
84 g/km
Emissions standard
Euro 6d-Temp
Fuel consumption
78.5 mpg
Luggage Capacity
443 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 capacity
7.2 Ah
Top Speed
112 mph
0-62 mph
10.8 secs
CO2
75 – 84 g/km
Emissions standard
Euro 6DG
Fuel consumption
59.6 – 67.3mpg
Luggage Capacity
502 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 Speed
120 mph
0-60 mph
11.8 secs
CO2
171 g/km
Emissions standard
Euro E6
Fuel consumption
44 mpg
Luggage Capacity
550 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 capacity
8.9 to 15.6 kWh
Top Speed
101 mph
0-60 mph
11.1 secs
CO2
100 g/km
Emissions standard
Euro 6
Fuel consumption
65.7 mpg
Luggage Capacity
382 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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