Differences between Taxi and VTC

The taxi and private hire vehicle (VTC) sector in France is constantly evolving. Traditional taxis have long been the primary means of transportation for travelers, but with the emergence of VTCs, the transportation landscape has changed considerably. In this article, we will examine the differences between taxis and VTCs in terms of regulations, fares, selection criteria, vehicle types, services offered, operating areas, comfort, insurance, and liabilities. We will also discuss the future prospects for both services in the transportation industry.

The regulatory differences between taxis and VTCs

Taxis and VTCs are subject to different regulations in France. Taxis are regulated by the Thévenoud Law, which imposes certain requirements on taxi drivers. For example, taxi drivers must obtain a special license called a "professional card" and pass a medical exam to prove their fitness to drive a taxi. Additionally, taxis must be equipped with an approved meter and an electronic payment terminal.

In contrast, VTCs are regulated by the Grandguillaume Law. VTC drivers must also obtain a professional license, but the requirements are less stringent than for taxis. For example, they are not required to pass a medical exam. Furthermore, unlike taxis, VTCs are not required to have an approved meter and can set their own rates.

The prices charged by taxis and VTCs

Taxi and private hire car fares also differ. Taxis use a pricing system based on time and distance traveled. They have a base fare, plus surcharges based on the distance traveled and the time spent in the taxi. Taxis may also charge extra for luggage, pets, and trips made at night or on public holidays.

In contrast, VTCs generally use a flat-rate pricing system. The price is set in advance based on the distance to be traveled, and there are no additional charges for time spent in the vehicle. This can make VTCs more attractive to some travelers, as they know the exact price of their ride in advance.

The selection criteria for becoming a taxi or VTC driver

The selection criteria for becoming a taxi or private hire driver are different. To become a taxi driver, you must obtain a special license called a "professional card." To do so, you must pass an exam that assesses the candidate's knowledge of transportation regulations, topography, and English. Additionally, candidates must have a clean criminal record and have held a driver's license for at least three years.

On the other hand, to become a VTC driver, you also need to obtain a professional license, but the requirements are less stringent. Candidates must pass an exam that assesses their knowledge of transport regulations and topography, but there is no English language test. Furthermore, unlike taxis, VTC drivers are not required to have a clean criminal record.

The types of vehicles used by taxis and VTCs

Taxis and private hire vehicles use different types of vehicles. Traditional taxis are typically mid-size or large cars, such as sedans or minivans. These vehicles are often equipped with approved meters, electronic payment terminals, and illuminated roof signs to indicate their availability.

On the other hand, VTCs generally use high-end cars, such as luxury sedans or SUVs

These vehicles offer a higher level of comfort than traditional taxis and are often equipped with additional services such as Wi-Fi, cell phone chargers, and free bottled water.

Services offered by taxis and VTCs

The services offered by taxis and private hire vehicles can vary. Traditional taxis offer a door-to-door service, meaning they can pick up passengers from their homes or workplaces and drop them off at their final destination. They can also be booked in advance or picked up on the street.

In contrast, VTCs generally offer a pre-booking service only. Passengers must book their ride in advance via a mobile app or website. VTCs cannot be picked up on the street like traditional taxis.

Areas of operation for taxis and VTCs

Taxis and VTCs operate in different areas in France. Traditional taxis are licensed to operate in all areas, including major cities, suburbs, and rural areas. They are often available at airports, train stations, and city centers.

On the other hand, VTCs are subject to geographical restrictions. They are only authorized to operate in certain areas defined by local authorities. This means that in some regions, it may be more difficult to find an available VTC compared to a traditional taxi.

The advantages and disadvantages of taking a taxi or a VTC

There are pros and cons to taking a taxi or a private hire vehicle. Traditional taxis offer immediate transportation, meaning they can be easily found on the street or booked at the last minute. Additionally, they are often available 24/7. However, taxis can be more expensive than private hire vehicles, especially for longer distances.

Private hire vehicles generally offer a higher level of comfort than traditional taxis. The vehicles used by private hire vehicles are often newer and better maintained, which can make the ride more pleasant for passengers. Additionally, private hire vehicles often offer additional services such as Wi-Fi and cell phone chargers. However, private hire vehicles must be booked in advance, which may be less convenient for some travelers.

The differences in comfort between taxis and VTCs

There are differences in comfort between taxis and private hire vehicles. Traditional taxis are often mid-sized or large cars, which means they can be a little more cramped for passengers. Additionally, taxis may be less well-maintained than private hire vehicles, which can affect the comfort of the ride.

On the other hand, VTCs generally use high-end cars, which offer a higher level of comfort than traditional taxis. These vehicles are often equipped with leather seats, air conditioning, and a high-quality audio system. Additionally, VTCs are generally better maintained than traditional taxis, ensuring a more pleasant ride for passengers.

Insurance and responsibilities related to taxis and VTCs

Taxis and private hire vehicles are subject to different insurance and liability requirements. Traditional taxis must carry special insurance called "taxi insurance." This insurance covers property damage and bodily injury caused to passengers and third parties during the taxi ride.

However, private hire vehicles (VTCs) must purchase special insurance called "VTC insurance." This insurance offers similar coverage to taxi insurance, but is tailored to the specifics of the VTC service. For example, it may include coverage for booking delays or cancellations.

Future prospects for taxis and VTCs in the transport industry

The transportation industry is constantly evolving, and taxis and VTCs are no exception. With the emergence of ride-sharing platforms and shared mobility services, the transportation landscape continues to transform. It's difficult to predict exactly how the industry will evolve in the future, but it's likely that taxis and VTCs will continue to coexist. It's possible that traditional taxis will adopt some of the features of VTCs, such as advance booking via a mobile app. Likewise, VTCs could be subject to stricter regulations to become more similar to traditional taxis. Regardless, it's clear that the transportation sector will continue to evolve to meet the changing needs of travelers. In conclusion, taxis and VTCs are two different transportation services in France. They are subject to different regulations, have different fares, use different types of vehicles, offer different services, and operate in different areas. Traditional taxis offer immediate service and are often available 24/7, while private hire vehicles offer a higher level of comfort and can be booked in advance. Both services have their pros and cons, and it's important to consider these factors when choosing between a taxi and a private hire vehicle.