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Taxi firm wants one-person mini-cabs
TAXI FOR ONE: A Leyland taxi firm is considering using Smart cars as cabs for single passengers
They say the best things come in small packages.
And a Leyland taxi firm is hoping to prove that, with a new plan to launch taxis for one.
The down-sized deal will mean a 20 per cent reduction in fares for passengers – and some perks for the environment too.
Leyland Taxis were due to put their new venture before the General Licensing Committee on Tuesday, and brought a Smart car along for the ride.
Manager Philip Briggs said: “I completed an in-house survey at Leyland Taxi, and in one week, 68 per cent of journeys only had one passenger.
“I feel a smaller vehicle to carry one passenger could be the way forward.
“The most suitable vehicle on the market at this time is the Smart car.”
The one-passenger plan has already been launched in Oxford, with a taxi firm there saying it reduced their fares by 20 per cent.
Mr Briggs said: “I feel this is a conservative figure.
“I am aware we have to look after the environment, and I am aware the economic climate is very poor.”
They say savings made from reduced petrol costs, road tax costs, and servicing, will be passed on to passengers.
He said: “This, in taxi terms, is a great saving, and I am seriously considering a new venture.”
The panel at South Ribble Council are tasked with deciding if the Smart forTwo car is comfortable and safe enough to be licensed for private hire. This will include inspecting the car to see if people can get in and out easily, and there is enough space in the small cars for luggage.
Coun John Rainsbury, chairman of the General Licensing Committee, said: “As far as I’m aware, we’ve never had an application like this.
“It’s an interesting plan, and one which the committee will decide on the night.”
- What do you think? Email guardian.newsdesk@lep.co.uk
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Weather for Leyland
Tuesday 22 May 2012
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Temperature: 10 C to 17 C
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Wind direction: North west
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LeeBrundrett
Monday, March 19, 2012 at 10:40 PMplease let me know if this goes ahead as i might invest in 1or2 also will the age restriction stayin place 4 these vehicles as they can only be used for private hire and will it be cheaper to plate as a one person cab rather than four persons
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