The European Commission announced on Wednesday 2 February the adoption of a guidance note for national and local authorities on the regulation of taxis and private hire vehicles.
In detail, the Commission calls, for example, for the avoidance of empty runs or the obligation for private hire cars to return to the garage between runs.
In addition, the guidelines for Member States encourage the development of more sustainable vehicle fleets and better integration with public transport.
“Integration with public mobility, reducing empty trips and encouraging passenger pooling are all part of today’s direction. With them, we are trying to ensure a good service for passengers throughout Europe”, said Transport Commissioner Adina Vãlean.
In addition, the text also specifies that the requirements to become a driver and the conditions of access must be “simple and proportionate”.
These guidelines are part of the Urban Mobility Plan, which is a component of the ‘Efficient and green mobility package’ presented by the European Commission on 14 December 2021 (see EUROPE 12853/4). (Original version in French by Thomas Mangin)