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In the bustling metropolis of London, where time is of the essence, sustainable taxis are emerging as the unsung heroes in business travel. While many corporate policies focus on air travel and hotel accommodation, the ground transportation segment often gets overlooked.
However, the final mile — e.g. getting from the train station to the final destination — holds immense potential for sustainability gains. Finding sustainable options for this last leg can contribute to a company's overall environmental responsibility. Here, we will look at the pivotal role of sustainable taxis in shaping an eco-conscious approach to business travel in cities.
In the dynamic world of business, time is money. City business travellers, often needing to squeeze every minute in their schedules, often rely on multi-modal travel. We see the majority of corporate travellers hopping on the tube for longer distances and then seamlessly transitioning to taxis to get swiftly between stations and offices in time for their next meeting. This approach minimises waiting times and enhances productivity, making taxis a cornerstone of time-conscious business travel.
London's iconic black cabs, once synonymous with the city's traditional charm, have undergone a remarkable evolution. These vehicles are now at the forefront of sustainability, with a transition toward zero-emissions capability, making them one of the leading sustainable transport options for busy business travellers who want to move quickly without costing the earth. The evolution of black cabs reflects London's dedication to environmental consciousness and aligns with the city's ambitious green initiatives.
FREENOW has taken this need for business taxis and works directly with drivers to ensure that the number of black cabs available in London increases. The number of black cabs fell post-covid, with fewer drivers applying to take the Knowledge of London. This test takes several years and costs around £5,000. When FREENOW surveyed drivers, we found that many were interested in becoming black cab drivers, but they needed financial support.
FREENOW was committed to encouraging more private hire drivers to apply for the test, not only so that they could progress their careers, but also to boost an iconic London trade. As a result, we launched an initiative where we pay for 100% of the application, tuition, exam and licensing fees for minicab drivers who already use our app. Why? Because black cabs aren’t just rides; they’re an experience. Perfect for business travellers who demand comfort, reliability and sustainability all at the same time. Now, more of our passengers can boss the bus lane, work on-the-go and embrace sustainability.
FREENOW continues to grow a fleet that is committed to reducing carbon footprints, with a focus on electric and hybrid vehicles. This commitment aligns seamlessly with the growing demand for eco-friendly transportation solutions in the heart of London's business landscape.
For business travellers navigating London's fast-paced environment, the FREENOW app offers seamless convenience. This user-friendly app allows travellers to book sustainable taxis with a tap, streamlining the booking, travel and expense process with automated business payments and expense system integrations to save valuable time for employees and finance departments alike.
As London continues to position itself as a global business hub, the rise of sustainable taxis becomes a pivotal factor in shaping the future of corporate travel policies. By recognising the significance of the final mile, integrating eco-friendly options, and leveraging innovative solutions like FREENOW's sustainable taxi fleet, businesses can champion sustainability without compromising efficiency. It's not just a ride; it's a conscious choice towards a greener, more sustainable London for business travellers and the city alike.
