Tag Archive: Drive

1. Taxi Drivers – Is it time to return to work?

   May 22, 2020 2:01 pm Comments Off on Taxi Drivers – Is it time to return to work?

   Over the last few weeks I have spoken to many drivers and read hundreds of social media posts all asking the same question ‘is there any work out there, is it worth me coming back?’

   Since mid-March, we have seen work levels hit the floor, with Heathrow at a standstill and nobody on the streets, most drivers have decided to follow the governments’ advice and stay at home. Some drivers decided to carry and continued to work, approx. 20% of our fleet stayed on the road. These drivers did not find it easy and have relied more on app and account work from the likes of Sherbet Ride, Com Cab & Gett.

   So, the question is it time to return? We have seen more of our fleet return over the last few weeks. Drivers seem keen to get back after possibly 8-10 weeks off. I think we all understand work levels will be low but we are seeing small glimmers of hope. I have seen credit card suppliers publishing transaction figures which are low but seem to be on the increase. Listening to the news the government has plans to open more businesses, we will see shops opening soon and hopefully bars and pubs. The weather is on our side so more people will be tempted to come out after weeks indoors. The trains and tubes are starting to look busier and I believe we will see more of our core customers (office workers) returning to the London offices over the coming weeks.

   Customers will also think twice about using private hire, social distancing is still the government’s keywords, over the last few weeks our sales team at Sherbet Ride have seen an increased number of enquiries from big corporations who have made the decision to move away from private hire, and are no longer prepared to move staff around in the confined space of a car.

   I think we would all agree to need to come back at some point, yes it will be hard to start with but slowly the work levels will increase. Many rental companies are also prepared to help. We have our own return to work rental plans with an agreed period of discounted rent.

   It will always be hard to come back after such a long period off, but we all have to come back at some point. Taxis should be seen on the streets of London. Customers need to know we are back and ready to get London moving again.

   Take care and stay safe

   Michael Eades

   Interested in renting an electric taxi? – https://www.sherbetlondon.com/electric-taxi-information/

   Interested in renting a TX4? – https://www.sherbetlondon.com/rentals/

   Or give us a call 0203 948 3315

2. Helping Drivers Back To Work Post Covid-19 Lockdown

   May 11, 2020 12:21 pm Comments Off on Helping Drivers Back To Work Post Covid-19 Lockdown

   Dear valued Sherbet Driver,

   The last few months have been unprecedented for the London taxi trade. The national Covid-19 lockdown has seen many drivers to follow the government advice and stay at home. I personally made this decision almost 8 weeks ago when I closed all our sites to protect our teams and our drivers.

   Following updated guidance from the Government, I feel it is now time to start thinking about the process of helping drivers return to work. I believe every driver has to make his/hers own decision on the right time to return, every drivers circumstances are different – but I want to make it clear the Sherbet team are here to help once you have decided to return to work.

   Our team have been looking at way to help safeguard drivers:

   A few weeks ago we were fortunate to be visited by a Training Professional from the NHS, she suggested ways to reduce risks to drivers. She also provided training to our staff on the correct procedure on cleaning the taxi, and the correct use of PPE. We are more than happy to pass on this knowledge.

   You are more than welcome to make an appointment to attend Dalston for advice on cleaning and if required – let us help reduce the gaps between the two compartments.

   We understand the last few months have been financially difficult for drivers:

   Many drivers are not working and low work levels for drivers who have been, again we are here to help. Our team have been briefed and have many options to help drivers back to work.

   Please do call us (020 3948 3315) and discuss your return to work plan.

   We have seen an increased interested In Sherbet Ride:

   Over the last few months our sales team have been working extremely hard dealing with an increased number of enquiries from companies who traditionally use private hire. Business are worried about using private hire and are now looking at the safety a black taxi brings. We are anticipating a surge on booking over the next few months.

   We continue to be contacted by drivers who do not rent from us; so we also continue to help new drivers. We have electric and diesel taxis available to rent. For rent enquires please talk to our rent team, we are here to help all drivers.

   I am sure the next few months will be challenging for all of us, but I have confidence in the trade. London will bounce back.

   Stay safe

   Asher Moses

   

3. London’s first rapid electric vehicle charging hub powered by Engenie

   December 31, 2019 11:17 am Comments Off on London’s first rapid electric vehicle charging hub powered by Engenie

   

   We are proud to be one of the taxi hire partners who joined Engenie, one of the UK’s fastest-growing electric vehicle charging networks, at the event last week launching London’s first rapid EV charging hub at Stratford International Station car park.

   The landmark EV hub is the first of five which will be opened in London over the next few years to serve the capital’s 30,000 EV drivers.

   

   Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, said: “London’s air quality is a serious public health crisis and we face a climate emergency which threatens our future. We need to help people move away from petrol and diesel cars, so we can clean up our air and tackle climate change. The overwhelming success of London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone shows both Londoners and businesses alike are ready to play their part.

   “I want to help people switch to public transport, walking and cycling and want all new cars and vans in London to be zero emission by 2030, not 2040 as the Government is proposing. Today’s announcement will help us to continue to work together with London boroughs and the private sector to deliver a major expansion in charging infrastructure and an electric vehicle revolution in the capital.”

   This charging hub will be central to the Mayor of London’s EV infrastructure delivery plan, in which he pledged to open at least five rapid charging hubs over the coming years and install 300 rapid chargers by the end of 2020.

   The hub will host six 50kW rapid chargers with connectors compatible with every EV on the market. The charge points are fully open access to all EV drivers, allowing them to pay for charging with a simple tap of a contactless card or smart phone, with no registration or membership required. TfL has contributed funding towards the project, which is hosted by landlord HS1 and delivered and operated by Engenie. Engenie will be subsidising the site, to ensure that there will be no parking fees for those using the chargers, for the foreseeable future.

   “London is trailblazing the EV revolution and actively working to deliver cleaner air for its 9 million residents,” said Ian Johnston, CEO of Engenie. “This rapid charging hub is a significant step change in the crucial infrastructure needed to serve the accelerating number of electric vehicles across the city.”

   London’s EV drivers will have access to the brand-new charging hub in Stratford from 28 December 2019. The rapid charge points at the hub are capable of providing up to 100 miles of charge in just 35 minutes.

   

   Christina Calderato, TfL’s Head of Transport Strategy and Planning, said: “We know that a comprehensive network of charging points is essential if we are to persuade drivers to ditch polluting diesel vehicles and swap them for electric alternatives. Installing a 1,000 more residential charging points across the capital means more Londoners can plug their vehicle in while at home, even if they don’t have a driveway. For those that need to charge up in 20-30 minutes, London is one of the leading world cities for rapid charge points. The addition of the east hub in Stratford is the first super charging facility, allowing drivers easy access and convenient methods of payment.”

   Almost 3,000 London taxis have switched to electric to navigate the introduction of ultra-low emission zones in the city. This hub will support this transport transition with accessible and convenient charging.

   London’s EV revolution will continue next year, with new requirements being brought in for private-hire vehicles. As of 1 January 2020, all newly licensed private hire vehicles that are less than 18 months old will need to be plug-in hybrid, electric or hydrogen vehicles.

4. Sherbet Ride ‘Love Sport’ Radio Interview On the Impact of Uber Losing Their License

   November 28, 2019 12:52 pm Comments Off on Sherbet Ride ‘Love Sport’ Radio Interview On the Impact of Uber Losing Their License

   Listen to the Martin Bell’s Love Sport Radio interview with Sherbet Ride CEO Asher Moses on the impact of Uber losing their license, electric taxi experience, sustainable travel, and green future.

5. Sherbet’s CEO Asher Moses Interviews Sherbet Ride Drivers

   August 2, 2019 9:26 am Comments Off on Sherbet’s CEO Asher Moses Interviews Sherbet Ride Drivers

    

   Have you ever wondered what is it like working with Sherbet Ride as an ambassador driver?

   Sherbet’s CEO – Asher Moses asks Zak, John, and Sacha about their experience working with us, driving an electric taxi and more.

    

   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YgTj4I4m328

    

   Are you a London Taxi Driver? Have you embraced the new Electric TXE?

   Join us today to be part of London’s fastest growing premium electric taxi circuit.

    

    

6. Accessibility of Electric Taxis

   June 5, 2019 1:54 pm Comments Off on Accessibility of Electric Taxis

   

   With the introduction of the newest technology of emission-free vehicles, London taxis provide an environmentally friendly and high-quality service

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   Our unique combination of offering environmentally friendly Electric taxis, professionally trained chauffeurs and in-depth knowledge of London means our comprehensive range of services are valued by discerning business and private customers throughout the city of London. We offer a truly personal service with drivers and customer service who take pride in the level of care and attention paid to make sure passengers enjoy the best possible customer experience using Sherbet RIDE.

   The fact that the experience of using black cabs in London has improved significantly with the introduction of the new environmentally-friendly electric taxis, which replace the existing TX model, has been recognised by the press. However, there is very little coverage about Electric taxi accessibility.

   Many passengers want to know certain safety details such as how much headroom there is in the doorway, how sturdy the ramp is and what the turning circle inside is like.

   Our accessibility trained professional Electric taxi drivers will have the ramp ready for passengers who use a wheelchair at arrival. The ramp is sturdy and can handle up to 250kg and is suitable for the majority of wheelchair users. For a hassle-free experience, the ramp is located in between the floor of the taxi and can take just a few seconds to be taken out, set up, and slid away.

   

   In contrast with the old TX’s, all-electric taxis benefit from large headroom and space inside which makes turning a wheelchair around and travelling forwards or backwards very easy.

   The interior floor is completely flat, without intrusion, and covered in a slip-resistant material. What’s more, electric taxis have a simpler set of restraining belts to hold a wheelchair in place, longer than usual high-visibility handles and seat edges, swivel seats for easy access, a hearing loop on the intercom system and a built-in step to help passengers get into the door.

   The rear-hinged passenger door opens a full 90 degrees to create a large, un-obtruded aperture with a minimum width at its narrowest point of 80cm.

   In conclusion, Electric taxis are significantly more accessible than other TX models on the road. Both drivers and passengers can benefit from the newest safety and technology features in environmentally friendly low emission vehicles.

   Download the Sherbet Ride App on Android & iOS to Hire an Electric Taxi with us today!

   www.sherbetride.com

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7. Things the Driver Will Love About the Sherbet London Electric Taxi

   January 30, 2019 5:19 pm Comments Off on Things the Driver Will Love About the Sherbet London Electric Taxi

    

   The new London taxi models are increasingly populating the capital’s streets – here are the things you will love about Sherbet London taxis.

    

   Besides it is fully equipped with exciting and enjoyable new features for the passenger such as onboard 4G Free WiFi, charging sockets for mobile phones and laptops and dazzling panoramic roof, the Sherbet London Electric Taxis offers most comfortable and efficient taxi driving experience so far.

    

   

   • Battery Life

   Certainly, the good news for the Electric taxi owners is that its battery charge will last 24 hours (considering the average 80-120 mile driving distance). Even more, the charging itself (boosting to 80% with a 50kw charger) only takes 25 minutes.

    

   • Saving the Environment

   There’s no surprise to hear that the Electric taxis is significantly more environmentally friendly than the standard diesel TX4. In fact, from 1st January 2019, all new black taxis in London must have emissions of no more than 50g/km as well as a minimum zero-emission range of 30 miles. The Electric taxi company manufacturer LEVC built the TXE model that can drive 80 miles with 0 emissions (Carbon emissions of 29g/km driving on the range extender).

    

   • Demand

   The completely new (Bentley-like) TXE design definitely increases the number of hands on the streets that hail the taxi down. People want to experience a ride in the new iconic black taxis as well as contribute to a greener environment. What is more, the ‘for hire’ light always looks like its on even though it’s been switched off so expect people constantly wanting to hail.

    

   • Safety

   The new safety features in the Electric taxi include the driver’s wheel, thorax and curtain airbags, passengers additional curtain airbags for side impact protection, emergence autonomous braking, lane departure warnings, and forward collision warnings.

    

   • Smooth Ride

   Comparing to diesel TX4’s the Sherbet London Electric Taxis offers a significantly smoother and effortless ride for both the driver and passengers. Firstly, the TXE has regenerative braking which essentially slows the vehicle when you lift your foot off the accelerators. It is incredibly quiet and unlike the diesel engine, the driving noise is hardly noticeable on the streets and inside the taxi.

    

   • Cost Effective

   The new London taxi model has significantly lower running costs comparing to standard TX’s. For example, the driver is saving up to £110 per week on fuel! Over five years that adds up to saving over £27k! (Based on an average price of fuel from April last year)

    

   Interested in renting the new Electric Taxi from Sherbet London?

   Leave us your contact number, simply contact us or alternatively call our Taxi Advisers 020 3948 3315

8. Sherbet London Leading The Way In Training New Drivers

   December 18, 2018 3:10 pm Comments Off on Sherbet London Leading The Way In Training New Drivers

    

   A few months ago, we launched a new initiative helping newly qualified taxi drivers go from badge presentation day to working as a London taxi driver

    

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   Test Drives, Inductions, and Training Sessions

    

   Newly passed out drivers who decided to rent from Sherbet receive full training on all aspects of the taxi including the disabled equipment, taxi meter, credit card system, and advice on electric taxi charging. There is also a chance to ask our Driver team (who are working taxi drivers) any question they may have regarding their new career.

   Sherbet’s in-house trainer said “The training is invaluable for new drivers since the scrapping of the driving exam a few years ago I feel drivers need this training. We show drivers all elements in operating the taxi including the wheelchair ramp, hints, and tips on driving the taxi and operating the meter and card system.

   I also pass my mobile number to all new drivers they are free to call me any time should they have any further questions I’ve held my green badge for almost 15 years, and I love passing on what I have learned.’

   Since the start of the initiative, we’ve had many new qualified drivers come through and we are proud to welcome them into the Sherbet family.

   Peter who recently received our training said, “I found the training well worthwhile and feel more prepared to hit the streets, also I have Daren’s number if I need any help in the future”.

    

    

   Due to the success, we will be continuing with the training all next year, so if you’re coming to the end of your knowledge give us a call.

    

   We are here to help.

   For more information or to book an appointment please call

   020 8458 7111 Option 2 or email info@sherbetlondon.com

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9. Sherbet London Drives New Vision New Website

   July 20, 2018 11:22 am Comments Off on Sherbet London Drives New Vision New Website

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   Sherbet London have launched a new website. The new website delivers three key messages to Sherbet London’s identified audiences of drivers, passengers and media partners: Drive with Sherbet, Ride with Sherbet and Advertise with Sherbet.

   Asher Moses, CEO of Sherbet London, said:

   “The new Sherbet London is about building a network of professional drivers, by driving investment in sustainable, environmentally-friendly vehicles. We want to build a community that supports drivers in delivering technology and service excellence. The website is a key part of delivering against this vision.”

   The new website, www.sherbetlondon.com, pulls together information in one place for all key audiences. Drivers can find out which vehicles are available for rent or apply to join the elite network, designed for owner-drivers and leasers of electric vehicles. Asher added,

   “Over the last five years, we have focused on growing our fleet Now we are focused on the future, and that must to be built on the back of a low or zero emissions fleet. So, we’re continuing to invest heavily in electric LEVC vehicles and we’re actively recruiting owner-drivers with electric vehicles. We want these drivers to come and talk to us and receive the support they need so we can collectively future proof the safest, premium transport system in London.”

   Sherbet London utilise the latest technology in all vehicles, providing detailed GPS tracking data, credit card payment terminals, in-vehicle surveillance, external cameras, fixed and hourly fares, high access to airport transfers and film shoot work.

   “The beauty of the Sherbet London model is that we have identified the most lucrative channels for drivers to increase their income and we focus on them via every channel. So, when we take on a media partner, we are thinking of ways to maximise that partnership and improve the experience for the customer and the income generation potential for the driver.”

   Asher said.

   Follow@SherbetLondon on Twitter and Facebook or @SherbetLDN on Instagram.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][ultimate_spacer height=”30″][/vc_column][/vc_row]