Detail

GrabCab, the sixth local taxi operator currently recruiting drivers, announced driver packages including vehicle rental and benefits. Less than a month after launch, it has already lowered its rental fees by about 10% from the original price, showing that it also faces challenges in attracting taxi drivers. GrabCab, which will begin passenger service in July, released operational details on 4 June. Lecturer Liang Xiuyi from SP’s School of Business said that despite the growing popularity of e-hailing services, taxis continue to play an important role in the urban transport ecosystem from both market and regulatory perspectives. She pointed out that taxi fares are regulated and metered, protecting passengers from unpredictable fare surges. This makes taxis especially important during peak hours, rainy days, or major events such as F1 and concerts. For travellers unfamiliar with local apps and elderly passengers, taxis remain their preferred choice. Umah Devi d/o Ramasamy, Business Manager at NYP’s School of Business Management, believes that street-side passenger pickups must continue to evolve by integrating technology. GrabCab may breathe new life into this traditional industry. “With its app and strong data capabilities, combined with market share, GrabCab can make it easier for passengers to hail taxis on the street.” She believes that in the future, the taxi industry may further consolidate and adopt more technology.

[Lianhe Zaobao]