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Fixed taxi price

Fixed taxi fares: News overview on the introduction, cities, and providers in Germany

01. September 2025, 11:41 Uhr

Fixed taxi fares are becoming increasingly widespread in German cities. In addition to Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg and Cologne, providers such as Freenow and Uber have also introduced similar models. The development is accompanied by debates about the legal framework and tariff corridors.

The city of Munich was the first to allow flat fares to be used for taxi rides. | Photo: Alexas-Pixabay
The city of Munich was the first to allow flat fares to be used for taxi rides. | Photo: Alexas-Pixabay
01.09.2025
Thomas Kanzler

Table of contents: Navigate effortlessly through our comprehensive news collection on the topic of fixed-price taxi fares (click to jump to the relevant news item and, at the end of each item, simply click to return here to the index)

This article comprises the following fixed-price taxi fares news:

On fixed-price taxi fares:

Fixed-price taxi fares refer to a sum agreed in advance for a specific journey, regardless of traffic conditions or travel time. The aim is to create greater cost transparency for passengers and ensure predictability at payment. In many German cities, fixed-price options have been introduced in recent years, partly through adjustments to municipal taxi fare schedules and partly via platform providers such as Freenow or Uber. The regulations are set within the framework of the Passenger Transport Act (PBefG), which gives municipalities flexibility, for example through tariff corridors. For passengers, this means greater comparability, while for taxi companies it presents both opportunities and challenges in pricing.

More transparency: Fixed taxi fares now also available in Duisburg and Hanover

News from September 1, 2025 by Kathrin Köstner

An algorithm calculates the fare in advance and factors in demand as well as the traffic situation. Passengers gain cost certainty, while drivers benefit from better planning.

Since September 1, 2025, passengers in Duisburg and Hanover have been able to book taxi rides at a fixed price via the Freenow app. The pricing model complements the previous billing by taximeter and is intended to create more transparency for passengers and planning certainty for drivers.

Calculation and framework conditions

The fixed price is determined based on the shortest route. It is calculated using the legally mandated base fare and per‑kilometer rates. To reflect fluctuations in supply and demand, deviations of up to ten percent up or down are possible. An algorithm takes into account current traffic data as well as vehicle availability.

Benefits for passengers and drivers

Before the trip starts, passengers are told bindingly what costs to expect, regardless of traffic conditions or journey time. For drivers, the model is designed to enable better income planning and higher vehicle utilization.

Experience from other cities

The fixed-price option is already available in several German cities, including Hamburg, Berlin, Munich, Düsseldorf, Cologne and Nuremberg. With the rollout in Duisburg and Hanover, Freenow is extending the model to two more major cities. In Hanover, the introduction is highlighted against the backdrop of frequently strained traffic conditions; in Duisburg, in light of the city’s shift toward modern urban mobility.

Regulatory prerequisites

Whether fixed prices can be offered in a city depends on the respective taxi tariff regulations. Only a corresponding change enables their introduction. Freenow expects more cities to follow.

Further demands by the company

Beyond fixed prices, the company advocates a minimum fare for private‑hire vehicles with drivers. The aim is to create fair competitive conditions vis‑à‑vis the taxi trade.

Company background

Freenow is a European mobility platform headquartered in Hamburg. In addition to taxi bookings, it offers services such as car sharing, e‑scooters and private‑hire vehicles with drivers, and operates in nine European markets with over 180 cities. In July 2025, Freenow was acquired by U.S. mobility provider Lyft.

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Freenow to introduce fixed taxi fares in Düsseldorf and Nuremberg from May 2025

News from April 30, 2025 by Kathrin Köstner

Taxi rides at a pre‑agreed price: from May, that will be possible in two more German cities. Integration into the Freenow app delivers greater transparency for fare planning—for business travelers, commuters and tourists alike.

From May 1, 2025, passengers in Düsseldorf and Nuremberg will be able to book taxi rides at a fixed price. The new pricing rules are based on the respective local taxi tariff regulations and enable transparent pricing before the trip begins. Freenow, a mobility platform with a focus on taxis, is integrating the new model into its app from day one.

Calculation basis differs by city 

The fixed prices are based on the regular taxi tariffs of the respective cities. In Nuremberg, the fare is calculated from a base fare and a per‑kilometer rate. In Düsseldorf, the per‑kilometer rate and the expected journey time are factored into the calculation.

Depending on the city, different ranges for deviations from the calculated price apply: In Nuremberg, adjustments between 0 and +25 percent are permitted; in Düsseldorf, between –20 and +20 percent. These so‑called tariff corridors enable a flexible response to market developments within the framework of legal provisions.

Planning certainty for passengers and drivers 

The fixed‑price model is primarily intended to provide more transparency and planning certainty. Passengers know the price to be paid before the trip begins—regardless of traffic conditions or journey time. For drivers, the predictable pricing results in jobs that are easier to calculate. 

“Many of our passengers ask as soon as they get in: ‘Roughly how much will the ride cost?’ With the fixed price, we can give a clear answer. That builds trust—and takes the pressure off us to keep explaining or debating how the price comes about,” 

says Sinan Ünlühan, a Nuremberg taxi operator.

Particularly relevant for commuter traffic and tourism 

In both cities, the offer is aimed in particular at business travelers, trade fair visitors and tourists. In Nuremberg, more than 160 taxis are currently connected via Freenow. According to the provider, the fixed‑price option is designed to meet these target groups’ need for reliable cost planning.

Possible expansion to additional cities 

If and when other cities adopt the fixed‑price model is the responsibility of municipal authorities. Freenow signals a fundamental willingness to expand the offer to further locations, provided local conditions allow it.

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BVTM Symposium in Munich: PBefG, fixed prices and tariff corridor

News from March 10, 2025 by Thomas Kanzler

Three weeks to go—the PBefG Symposium, staged with the German Association of Cities, builds on the success of the past two years: 110 officials from all over Germany have already registered for the event under the motto “Update 2025: Safely applying PBefG instruments in compliance with the law – cities learning from cities.”

According to Managing Director Michael Oppermann, the federal association’s PBefG Symposium in Munich is seeing strong demand from authorities. This year, municipal participants can expect a diverse line‑up of presentations on the PBefG instruments established by law in 2021 to protect public services through the taxi trade, as well as the opportunity to exchange views between presentations and at the evening get‑together on “introducing fixed and minimum prices.” Also new to intensify the exchange: an interactive day‑2 workshop, “From practice to policy.”

Fixed prices, minimum prices and tariff corridor

Oppermann promotes this year’s program. Participants can expect a mix of “best practices and to‑dos,” i.e., which cities have already successfully implemented fixed taxi prices with or without a tariff corridor, and where this is still pending.

“But the topic of minimum prices is also in the spotlight at the 2025 PBefG Symposium thanks to the positive ruling by the Leipzig Administrative Court, and will be presented by Claudia Hille from Leipzig and Federal Association President Herwig Kollar,” Oppermann continues. “Since there is now real‑world experience with the implementation of PBefG instruments, this year’s event will focus more on administrative practice and less on legal theory compared to previous years.”

With regard to the nationwide signaling effect for minimum fares, there will also be a focus on the capital, Berlin: Kirsten Dreher, Head of the State Office for Public Order, will speak on “data matching with platforms” and on “approval practice,” together with Josef Hoffmann from Munich, Viktor Schneitler from Düsseldorf and Herwig Kollar from the Federal Association of Taxis and Private‑Hire Vehicles. Michael Oppermann rounds off the program with his presentation “The new tariff diversity of fixed prices.” Numerous shared breaks with lunch, coffee and dinner give officials ample space to translate what they hear to their municipalities and to network.

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Fixed taxi fares in Düsseldorf start on May 1 – Freenow brings the new pricing model straight into the app

News from March 5, 2025 by Thomas Kanzler

From May 1, 2025, taxi rides in the state capital can also be booked at a fixed price. The multi‑mobility app Freenow, with a focus on the taxi business, is integrating the new pricing model into the app right from the start on May 1.

According to Andreas Maier, General Manager Germany and Austria at Freenow, passengers will benefit from price transparency and planning certainty, while taxi companies can position themselves better in the market. Freenow brokers more than 700 taxis in Düsseldorf—over half of all taxis in the city. With the new fixed‑price option, passengers know exactly what they will pay before the journey begins. That builds trust and makes taxis an attractive alternative to other mobility options. At the same time, the model delivers more planning certainty for drivers, who can better calculate their earnings.

This is how fixed pricing works in Düsseldorf

The fixed price in Düsseldorf is based on a defined corridor: the fare can deviate within a range of minus 20 percent to plus 20 percent from the fare expected under the tariff. This leaves some leeway to respond flexibly to traffic conditions and demand. This pricing helps taxi drivers adjust their trips in time while still offering passengers a transparent and predictable cost structure.

A proven model from other cities

The introduction of fixed pricing has already proven itself in other German cities. The model has been successfully implemented in Berlin, Munich and Frankfurt, and more recently in Hamburg and Cologne.

“We see that fixed prices are a big win for all sides in our partner cities,” says Maier. “Passengers benefit from fair, predictable prices, while drivers can better organize their work and optimize their earnings.”

Düsseldorf, as a trade fair and business hub with a vibrant nightlife and location in a metropolitan region, has a high demand for reliable mobility. Whether after a long working day, an event or a late trip home—passengers can be sure what they will pay for their ride with the new fixed price.

“The fixed price is an important step in the right direction. But more is needed to establish fair competition. A minimum price for taxi‑like private‑hire vehicles and effective data matching between the authority and platforms are essential to take illegal operators off the road. Politics and administration are called upon to create clear rules here, particularly to protect passengers,” emphasizes Alexander Mönch, President of Freenow in Germany and Austria.

The development of fixed‑price models in other cities depends on local decisions. Freenow welcomes any initiative that makes the taxi market more transparent and competitive, Mönch explains. With the introduction in Düsseldorf, the city is sending a strong signal for modern, digital and fair mobility.

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Fixed‑price taxi rides available from Saturday

News from January 31, 2025 by Franziska Neuner

(dpa/lno) The fare calculation for taxi rides in Hamburg is changing. Customers who don’t want an unpleasant surprise at the end of the ride can now opt for a fixed price.

In Hamburg, passengers will be able to order taxi rides at a fixed price from Saturday. As with other transport options, the price is set before the journey, the Hamburg Senate announced. 

Previously, passengers in Hamburg paid a base fare of €6 at most times, with the total price then calculated using a taximeter. From February 1, the base fare will fall to €4.50, but the grace minute is being eliminated. This means the clock keeps running even when the taxi is stationary. 

A fixed price pays off in traffic jams

The fixed price for a trip from Dammtor to the airport is €35 at the Hansa Funktaxi cooperative, the association told the German Press Agency on request. If the price is calculated by taximeter, the same route costs at least €30.80. 

However, if there are waiting times due to a traffic jam or other reasons, costs rise—and that can get expensive fast: Hansa‑Taxi charges 63 cents per minute. 

Passengers who find the taximeter calculation too uncertain should therefore be able to opt for the new fixed price. However, this option is only available when ordering through a taxi dispatch service, not directly at the start of the trip. 

Hansa‑Taxi welcomes the new pricing rule: “Fixed prices work very well in other cities and have boosted business,” said a spokesman for the association.

Pilot phase to provide clarity

During a two‑year trial phase, the authority responsible for transport and mobility transition wants to examine the acceptance and implementation of fixed‑price models. Afterwards, it will decide which fare calculation method will be implemented permanently.

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No more surprises at checkout: Hamburg and Cologne offer a fixed‑price option for taxi rides

News from January 29, 2025 by Thomas Kanzler

FREENOW will offer its customers in Hamburg and Cologne the option of selecting fixed prices for taxi bookings via the app from February 1, 2025. This allows users of the mobility app to try the new offer right from the introduction of fixed pricing.

According to Andreas Maier, General Manager Germany and Austria at FREENOW, the introduction of fixed pricing is intended to help taxi services position themselves in a digitized and highly competitive market and to ensure clear and transparent pricing for passengers and drivers.

“The fixed‑price concept has already proven to be a real asset in Munich, Berlin and Frankfurt,” Maier continues. “It brings clarity to both sides: passengers know exactly where they stand, and drivers can calculate fairly.”

Price corridor or fixed price with surcharge

A base fare plus a per‑kilometer rate yields the fixed price. There’s still a bit of flexibility, as drivers can adjust their price within a defined corridor or with a surcharge to remain competitive with other modes of transport such as public transit, private‑hire vehicles or car‑sharing providers. In Cologne, this corridor is –5 percent to +20 percent of the estimated fare. In Hamburg, there is no corridor, but a 12 percent surcharge on the total calculated from the base and per‑kilometer rates to account for average waiting time. The cities adopted the models themselves, enabling passengers to calculate their travel costs in advance with ease from now on.

Safety for customers – the price is set in advance

The taxi fixed price ensures clear conditions: nobody wants to guess what a ride will cost—least of all after a long working day or a wild night out. The fixed price brings safety and trust back to taxis. Passengers can rely on a fixed price before the trip—regardless of traffic or journey time. That builds trust and makes taxis an attractive alternative in urban transport. Especially amid increasing digitalization and competition from mobility platforms, the taxi industry is embracing this innovation, as drivers can better plan their working hours and be confident their services are appropriately remunerated.

Hamburg: Reliability despite construction chaos

In a city investing heavily in infrastructure, construction sites—and the resulting traffic problems that complicate everyday life for many Hamburgers—are part of the picture. The fixed price creates reliability to handle the more than 200,000 requests coming in monthly via the FREENOW app. Passengers know the cost of their ride in advance—regardless of how long they sit in traffic.

“Especially in a city like Hamburg, which struggles with traffic chaos, the fixed price creates clarity and more peace of mind for our passengers,” says Andreas Maier.

Cologne: Reliable mobility amid a high density of events

In Cologne, too, the fixed price brings advantages for passengers and the more than 500 drivers brokered via FREENOW. In a vibrant city known for events, tourism and an active nightlife, the introduction of fixed pricing is a welcome innovation. A passenger from Cologne says:

“When I was out with friends in the evening, I often didn’t know exactly what the taxi ride would end up costing. The fixed price now gives me certainty and makes planning much easier.”

How will fixed pricing develop in other cities?

The development of fixed prices depends directly on decisions by the respective cities and therefore remains a dynamic topic in municipal discussions. According to Maier, FREENOW expressly welcomes every introduction and promotion of fixed prices.

“FREENOW is also advocating the introduction of a fixed price in Düsseldorf,” Maier explains. “We look to the future with confidence.”

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Transparency on Frankfurt’s streets: fixed taxi fares at FREENOW

News from December 18, 2024 by Thomas Kanzler

FREENOW now offers its customers in Frankfurt the option to book rides at a price agreed in advance. The ordinance introducing fixed prices in Frankfurt came into force on December 17, 2024.

FREENOW is using the date to make the new fixed prices immediately available in the app, offering users the best possible service.

“With the introduction of fixed prices in Frankfurt, we offer our users price transparency and planning certainty,” says Alexander Mönch, President of FREENOW Germany and Austria. “We want to make taking a taxi as pleasant and simple as possible.”

After Munich and Berlin, Frankfurt is the third major city where taxi drivers can optionally offer fixed prices. The city is thus sending a strong signal for more price stability and a modern taxi culture. The key benefit: passengers enjoy clear prices with no unexpected extra costs due to traffic jams or detours. The taxi industry itself can also welcome the move, as increased planning certainty and flexibility will lead to stronger demand.

Tariff corridor offers flexibility

The fixed price moves within a so‑called tariff corridor. Depending on the route, the per‑kilometer price is at least €2.40 and at most €4.00. Thanks to intelligent data analysis in the app, demand and traffic conditions can be taken into account, allowing fair price adjustments within this corridor. For a trip from the main station to the airport (approx. 12 km), customers pay between €28.80 and €48—depending on current demand.

The taxi trade supports the initiative. “The introduction of fixed prices creates more transparency on price. We therefore expect increased demand for taxis in Frankfurt,” says Abdul Hamid Bhatti, a board member of the Taxi Association Frankfurt am Main.

Everyone benefits in dynamic traffic situations

The fixed‑price option is easy to use: after entering the start and destination addresses, users can select the fixed price directly in the app. Thanks to integration of real‑time data and navigation technologies, the app immediately displays the final price—stress‑free and transparent. After the trip, ratings and comments can be submitted directly in the app to further improve the service.

With the introduction of fixed prices in Frankfurt, FREENOW underscores its role as a pioneer in the mobility sector. Other cities such as Nuremberg, Cologne, Hamburg and Düsseldorf are also preparing to introduce fixed prices.

“FREENOW is thus further driving innovation in the German taxi market and ensuring that mobility becomes more predictable, transparent and comfortable everywhere,” emphasizes Mönch.

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Uber introduces fixed prices for taxi rides in Frankfurt

News from December 17, 2024 by Thomas Kanzler

The platform operator Uber will henceforth rely on fixed‑price taxi rides in Frankfurt. From December 17, passengers can use the Uber app to book only rides with a pre‑set tariff. The company announced this in a press release.

With the introduction of fixed pricing, Uber is responding to experiences from Munich and Berlin, where this model has been implemented for months. According to Uber, the number of dispatched taxi rides there has increased more than tenfold. The number of taxi drivers cooperating with the platform has also risen noticeably in these cities. Improved taxi availability has also helped increase the attractiveness of the offering, the company said.

“Many passengers have so far been put off by price uncertainty in taxis. Not knowing in advance what a service will cost would be unthinkable in other industries,” says Christoph Weigler, Uber’s Germany head. “Price transparency now greatly increases the attractiveness of taxis and at the same time helps taxi drivers improve their utilization.”

In Uber’s assessment, both sides benefit from the new model: passengers know exactly what costs to expect before the trip. At the same time, taxi drivers see new opportunities to increase their utilization. With flexible fixed prices, demand can be steered more precisely, the company explained.

Uber has been brokering taxi rides in Germany for several years and now works with more than 5,000 drivers, according to the company. This summer, it announced it would open its platform to taxi companies nationwide. Weigler expressed the hope that more cities would follow Frankfurt’s example.

Uber pushes into medium‑sized cities

The introduction of fixed prices in Frankfurt marks another step in establishing Uber’s business model in German cities. While the company has so far been active mainly in major metropolises, it is becoming increasingly present in mid‑sized cities. In Munich and Berlin, the fixed‑price model already appears to be meeting demand—whether this success will be replicated in Frankfurt remains to be seen.

Uber clearly benefits from fixed pricing for taxis, but continues to (still?) successfully resist minimum prices for private‑hire vehicles. The American platform operator seems hard to stop...

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Fixed taxi fares continue to gain ground

News from October 8, 2024 by Thomas Kanzler

After Munich and Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg and Cologne will also introduce fixed prices for taxis in the coming weeks and months. The Federal Association of Taxis and Private‑Hire Vehicles is calling for minimum tariffs for private‑hire vehicles to ensure fair competition.

Fixed‑price taxi rides are becoming increasingly popular across Germany. Taxi companies are responding to customer demand and can offer such pricing models in more and more cities, says BVTM Managing Director Michael Oppermann.

“Numerous other major cities will follow shortly and offer taxis at fixed prices,” Oppermann continues. “The tariffs are set by the respective authorities, which is why the rollout differs by region.”

Traditionally, taxi fares are calculated based on the actual distance traveled and determined by a calibrated taximeter in the vehicle. As a rule, you therefore never know exactly what the ride will cost beforehand.

“We can easily determine the fare in advance today and guarantee it to our guests. Then they can sit back and enjoy their ride without worry,” Oppermann explains, outlining the advantages of the fixed‑price option. 

Munich implemented fixed prices first

Fixed prices were made possible by the 2021 reform of the Passenger Transportation Act. Munich was the first city to translate this legal option into practice in September 2023.

“Cities and districts regulate taxi tariffs; they must also approve fixed prices. If they don’t, the industry’s hands are tied. It took a while, but now more and more cities are approving customer‑friendly tariffs, which we naturally welcome.” 

Alongside fixed taxi prices, the 2021 legal reform also made minimum prices for Uber fleets possible. So far, however, these exist only in Leipzig and Lörrach. The taxi association sees significant need for action here.

“If taxi prices are set by the municipality, then these rules must also apply to Uber & co.,” explains Oppermann. “Lawmakers have recognized this and expressly permitted minimum prices. Here again, however, we depend on the municipalities. We recommend a tariff corridor for taxis with a minimum and maximum price, and at the same time applying this minimum price to Uber fleets. That would effectively put a stop to the cut‑throat competition that all too often plays out on the backs of drivers.”

Some cities are currently preparing the legally sound introduction of such minimum prices. Only fair competition is good competition, says the BVTM managing director. That’s why the association expressly supports cities in their efforts to organize—and modernize—the mobility offering on their streets.

“Taximeters are not being abolished in taxis with the new fixed prices,” Oppermann emphasizes. “Anyone who doesn’t book in advance but simply gets in will continue to pay exactly according to the state‑calibrated taximeter.”

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Fixed taxi fares are also coming to Cologne

News from October 4, 2024 by Thomas Kanzler

The City of Cologne has decided to introduce the option of fixed prices for pre‑booked taxi rides. Within a defined tariff corridor, taxi drivers and customers will be able to agree a fixed price in advance from February 2025.

Of course, the classic taximeter billing remains available. The aim is to provide passengers with greater planning certainty and transparency. Taxi broker FREENOW says it welcomes the move.

“The fixed‑price rule for pre‑booked rides, for example via app, is an important step toward making taxi transport in Cologne more modern and customer‑friendly”, comments Alexander Mönch, President of FREENOW in Germany & Austria. “It not only offers passengers more planning certainty, but also strengthens trust in our services. At the same time, customers retain the flexibility to choose between a fixed price and traditional taximeter billing—ensuring the taxi service offers the right solution for every need.”

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    Taxi flat fares and minimum hire-car charges: PBefG Symposium 2024 brings municipalities together

    News from 01.10.2024 by Thomas Kanzler

    The Federal Association of Taxis and Hire Cars (BVTM) invited participants to Frankfurt for direct exchanges with municipal authorities from all over Germany. Interest was high, with 95 municipal representatives from across Germany attending.

    The demand for the event format “Cities learning from cities” was enormous again this year, which shows: the decision-makers from the transport authorities of cities and districts want to engage in dialogue and they want best-practice examples of how the PBefG instruments adopted in 2021—taxi flat fares and minimum prices for hire cars—can also be implemented in their municipalities. One participant, Frankfurt’s own Head of Public Order, Annette Rinn, used the symposium, which took place from last Wednesday to Thursday, to announce flat fares with a tariff corridor for Frankfurt.

    Even if the introduction of flat fares without simultaneously applicable minimum charges for hire cars in Munich, Berlin and Frankfurt is only one side of the intended coin, every city that takes action here has a signaling effect and serves as a role model for other cities.

    “That Frankfurt announced its decision at the symposium is a strong and important step towards fair competition,” summarized Michael Oppermann, Managing Director of the Federal Association of Taxis and Hire Cars, and he added: “This event format also shows us this year that the municipalities are willing and interested in standing behind taxis as part of their local public services. We have already received inquiries about the PBefG Symposium 2025.”

    Between the presentations by high-calibre representatives from politics, research and business, it became apparent that even more room must be left for subsequent questions and exchanges, Oppermann said with a view to next year’s planned event.

    Experiences with flat fares

    This year’s speakers on the topic of “flat fares” were Josef Hoffmann from the City of Munich and Dirk Ritter from Hamburg. Dr. David Sonnenberger and Prof. Dr. Mitusch, as advisors, examined price regulation from a transport science perspective. The association’s president, Herwig Kollar, lectured alongside Prof. Dr. Matthias Knauff from the University of Jena on the introduction of minimum charges and on constitutional jurisprudence. Knauff also addressed the European law dimension in a presentation.

    Kirsten Dreher, head of Berlin’s State Office for Citizens’ and Regulatory Affairs (LABO), the association’s vice president Hermann Waldner and Alexander Mönch from FreeNow described the situation in Berlin and pointed out paths for the future. The symposium was rounded off by Katie J. Wells, who joined from the U.S. capital: she presented her research and her book “Disrupting DC. The Rise of Uber and the Fall of the City” and issued a warning from Washington about what happens when cities let Uber have free rein. 

    Press not invited

    According to the BVTM, this format was intended to allow authority representatives to ask their questions and describe situations completely uninhibited. It is a pity that the event therefore took place excluding the public and the press.

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    Now also in Frankfurt: Flat fares for taxi rides

    News from 27.09.2024 by Thomas Kanzler

    (dpa/lhe/tk) Taxi rides at a fixed price will soon be possible in Frankfurt as well. The Römer coalition of the Greens, SPD, FDP and Volt has adjusted the Frankfurt taxi tariff accordingly. 

    Pre-booked taxi rides in Frankfurt can soon be made at a fixed price. Following a decision by the city, Frankfurt taxis may, for trips on prior order, agree fixed prices within the so-called tariff corridor.

    “I am convinced that with the introduction of fixed prices for a pre-booked taxi ride we have created greater planning certainty and transparency for passengers,” said Annette Rinn, Head of the Department for Public Order, Safety and Fire Protection.

    To determine the fixed-price offer, both a minimum and a maximum price per kilometer driven were set. Within this framework, a fixed-price offer can be made. Passengers can then choose whether to accept the fixed-price offer—or to have billing done as usual via the taximeter.

    “The fixed price creates more transparency for passengers by making it possible to set the final fare before the start of the journey,” explains Alexander Mönch, President of FREENOW in Germany, on the introduction of fixed prices in Frankfurt. “Our experience in cities such as Munich and Berlin shows that this not only increases satisfaction, but also significantly boosts demand for taxi rides. We are convinced that the tariff corridor decided by the City of Frankfurt will lead to a similarly positive development in Frankfurt.”

    Via app or in a conversation with the taxi dispatch service, passengers will in future be able to find out exactly what their ride from pick-up to destination will cost, including all applicable fees. The new flat-fare rule for trips on prior order will come into force six weeks after publication in the Official Gazette.

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    Flat fares for Berlin taxis: Offer is being accepted

    News from 03.07.2024 by Franziska Neuner

    (dpa/bb/fn) Since the beginning of June, taxi rides can be booked at a fixed price in Berlin. The industry hopes this will improve its chances in competition with Uber and others. The company is relaxed about it. 

    One month after the introduction of fixed prices for taxi rides in Berlin, two dispatch platforms have drawn a first positive conclusion.

    “We pushed a little to make sure the fixed prices were in place before the start of the European Football Championship—and that calculation paid off,” Alexander Mönch of Freenow told the German Press Agency. Currently, 25 to 30 percent more taxi rides are being booked via the platform. There are certainly several reasons for this, but the fixed price is one of them. “At the moment, more than half of taxi rides are booked at a fixed price,” said Mönch. 

    The taxi industry had long called for flat fares. It hopes this will create a better competitive situation compared with ride-hailing intermediaries such as Uber or Bolt, more demand and rising revenues. On the platforms, customers can see in advance how much they will have to pay for the planned ride. 

    Uber also reports satisfaction with flat fares 

    The new fixed price must fall within a tariff corridor based on the respective route length. It may deviate by a maximum of 20 percent upwards and 10 percent downwards. “The exact fixed price is set by an algorithm—depending on current supply and demand,” said Mönch of Freenow.

    Uber also expressed satisfaction with the first month of flat fares—i.e., precisely the company the taxi industry wants to fend off with flat fares. In addition to hire-car rides, Uber also brokers rides with traditional taxis via its app. Demand for the latter has risen sharply since the beginning of June. “The number of trips brokered via the Uber app to taxi drivers has more than doubled,” Uber said. 

    Number of taxis in Berlin constant—but ever fewer companies

    As of May 2024, 5,616 taxis were registered in Berlin. According to Mönch, Freenow works with 3,000 of them in the capital. While the number of taxis has remained almost the same since the beginning of the year, the number of companies is continuously declining. Currently, the slightly more than 5,600 vehicles are operated by 1,721 companies (May 2023: 1,879). 

    Leszek Nadolski of the Berlin Taxi Guild did not want to take stock after such a short time with flat fares. However, he emphasized that he continues to expect a lot from the introduction. The industry wants to break new ground—price certainty and transparency are particularly important.

    Freenow no longer investing in hire-car business

    The number of hire cars that can be booked via Uber and Bolt, for example, has fallen by around 400 to 4,074 since the beginning of the year. The figures are published monthly by the State Office for Citizens’ and Regulatory Affairs. 

    Hire cars can also be booked at Freenow instead of taxis. However, Mönch emphasized that the company is no longer investing in this business model and is focusing entirely on the taxi market. Accordingly, hire-car companies are increasingly moving away from the platform. 

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    Berlin introduces flat fares in the taxi tariff

    News from 29.05.2024 by Editorial staff (general)

    Even before the European Football Championship, taxi flat fares will be enabled in Berlin.

    As the Senate Administration for Mobility, Transport, Climate Protection and Environment (SenMVKU) announced on May 28, the Senate has approved the long-discussed amendment to the ordinance on fares in taxi transport.

    The amendment is to enter into force one day after promulgation in the “Law and Ordinance Gazette” of the State of Berlin.

    Taxi flat-fare rule only for pre-booked rides

    This will give taxi passengers the option of opting for price certainty within a tariff corridor before the ride, it said. At the same time, this will create a level playing field with the app-based intermediaries Uber & Co., which have always offered fixed prices before the start of the ride.

    The taxi flat-fare rule applies only to pre-booked rides, while hails will continue to be billed according to the conventional taximeter tariff.

    Flat fare recognizable on the taximeter

    According to SenMVKU, the basis of the flat fare is the start and destination points specified by the passenger when ordering, on the basis of which the shortest route is determined by digital routing software.

    A distance-based reference price is then calculated, whereby the per-kilometer prices of the regular taxi tariff are used as a basis. The flat fare offered to passengers may deviate from this reference price within the specified tariff corridor by a maximum of 20 percent upwards and 10 percent downwards.

    From July 1, 2024, the passenger will also be able to recognize the flat-fare ride on the fiscalized taximeter; until then, it may take time to switch all devices in the taxis.

    “The flat-fare and tariff corridor arrangement does not yet apply to rides from BER Airport to Berlin,” emphasized Transport Senator Ute Bonde. “In coordination with representatives of the taxi associations, however, this is to be made possible soon. This requires comprehensive clarifications with Flughafen Berlin Brandenburg GmbH and with the district of Dahme-Spreewald. We are in close contact with both.”

    Demand for a minimum price for Uber & Co.

    With the introduction of flat fares, the state government is following a request from the taxi trade. Hermann Waldner, head of Berlin’s largest taxi dispatch center and vice president of the Federal Association of Taxis and Hire Cars (BVTM), is satisfied:

    “Berlin is thus following the recommendations of the federal association and the Berlin trade. We would like to thank everyone involved, starting with the new Transport Senator Ute Bonde, her predecessor Manja Schreiner and every member of the House of Representatives who supported us here.”

    As a next step for fair competition, Waldner called for the introduction this year—as promised by the state—of minimum prices for hire-car-based intermediary platforms such as Uber & Co.

    “The existence of many taxi companies depends on the rapid introduction of this regulation,” warns Waldner. (thr)

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    Schreiner: Taxi flat fares are coming in summer

    News from 29.04.2024 by Franziska Neuner

    (dpa/bb/fn) One of the big advantages of ride-hailing intermediaries such as Uber is the fixed price that is given to customers even before the final booking. In Berlin, that will soon be available for taxis as well.

    From summer, Berliners will be able to agree a fixed price for their ride when booking a taxi. The fixed prices for taxis are on the way, said Transport Senator Manja Schreiner (CDU) to the German Press Agency.

    “We had some last-minute problems with the taximeter manufacturers. They have to program it first. The digital solution via taximeter therefore only begins on July 1. But we will introduce the fixed prices now nonetheless,” said the senator.

    System to protect against fraud

    All preparations have been made, but the issue has not yet passed the Senate, it said. The transport department is not expecting headwinds from other Senate departments either. For the period from the start of the fixed price until July 1, a documentation system has been developed with which it can be verified that no fraud is actually taking place, Schreiner said.

    The taxi industry had recently repeatedly called for the option of flat fares. It hopes this will create a better competitive situation compared with ride-hailing intermediaries such as Uber or Bolt. On the platforms, customers can always see in advance how much they will have to pay for the planned ride. Traffic jams, other obstacles or detours during the ride then no longer have any influence on the price after booking.

    The ride-hailing intermediaries were recently criticized because many vehicles without permits were on Berlin’s roads. The Senate recently blocked a quarter of all hire-car vehicles offered on the platforms. In the weeks before, the State Office for Citizens’ and Regulatory Affairs (Labo) had checked more than 8,900 vehicles in this context.

    Tough crackdown planned for ride-hailing intermediaries

    Senator Schreiner also wants to crack down hard on the ride-hailing intermediaries in the future. Her predecessors did open up competition in passenger transport, but afterwards did not carry out operational audits or look more closely at the companies’ business plans. “Competition is good for the customer, because it also has an effect on pricing. But when competition is carried out at the expense of employees who, in some cases, drive around the clock, have no liability insurance and, in the worst case, not even a driving license, then that really has to stop,” Schreiner told dpa.

    “We want to take a look at how it actually affects things when we create a competitive situation for the taxi trade again with fixed prices. And how does it impact that 25 percent fewer hire cars are on the road,” said the senator.

    Initial figures already show that waiting times have become a bit longer—which suggests that an effect has already been achieved in the market.

    Introduction of minimum prices fundamentally conceivable

    On hire-car platforms, ride prices vary greatly depending on the time of booking and passenger volume. At night, rides are usually significantly cheaper than during the day. Taxi prices are set by law; flexible pricing is not envisaged. 

    Schreiner considers the introduction of minimum prices for rides booked on ride-hailing platforms fundamentally conceivable—but only after very careful examination.

    “You can’t just introduce them. The providers are very well represented by lawyers. We know this from other cities that have already tried. Then each of them takes legal action. Therefore, it is also necessary for us to obtain good advice. We can only implement such measures if we can also defend them well,” said the senator to dpa.

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    Frankfurt plans flat fares for taxi rides

    News from 28.03.2024 by Thomas Kanzler

    The Römer coalition of the Greens, SPD, FDP and Volt is striving for an innovation in the taxi trade in Frankfurt: the introduction of flat fares alongside the regular taxi tariff. The aim of the initiative is to offer customers more transparent prices that can be understood before the ride begins, while at the same time taking into account the needs of Frankfurt taxi companies.

    In November 2022, the Magistrate of the City of Frankfurt adopted a new taxi tariff, which has been in force since January 2023. However, a flat-fare rule had been lacking until now.

    The motion calls on the city council to supplement the existing “Ordinance on Fares and Conditions of Carriage for Taxi Transport in Frankfurt (Taxi Tariff)” to create the possibility of a flat-fare rule for taxi orders. The coalition justifies this by pointing out that an amendment to the Passenger Transport Act in 2021 for the first time allows a more flexible design of taxi tariffs, including the possibility of introducing fixed prices for taxi rides. This would allow customers to agree a fixed price for their ride in advance.

    Hamburg and Munich were cited as role models for this measure. Hamburg has already implemented a flat-fare rule through a zone model since July 2023, while Munich has been offering flat fares since September 2023.

    Johannes Hauenschild, economic policy spokesperson for Volt in the Römer, emphasized the benefits of this rule for customers and taxi companies and expressed optimism that the motion will be adopted. After the motion is adopted, the Magistrate will work with the taxi associations to develop a fair flat-fare rule.

    The implementation of the flat-fare rule is expected to take some time. The first taxi ride at a flat price will probably be possible next year, estimates Hauenschild.

    Two flat-fare models are conceivable in Frankfurt: the zone model, in which a ride within a certain zone costs a fixed amount, or the route-based model, in which the flat fare is based on the distance traveled. Hauenschild is more in favor of the distance model, as the zone model could in some cases become more expensive. Experience in Munich shows that the introduction of flat fares leads to passengers choosing taxis more often. Taxi companies hope that this measure will improve their competitiveness compared to other chauffeur services.

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    Pre-booked taxis in Hamburg to run at flat fares in future

    News from 01.03.2024 by Thomas Kanzler

    (dpa/lno) Flat prices for taxi rides have so far hardly been used by customers. That could soon change. The transport authority and the taxi associations are planning an amendment.

    Anyone who pre-books a taxi in Hamburg should no longer experience price surprises in future. For pre-booked rides, a fixed price will then apply—regardless of whether longer routes or travel times were ultimately necessary, the transport authority announced on Thursday in Hamburg. The introduction has been coordinated with the intermediaries and associations of the Hamburg taxi trade—and was initiated by them.

    “The taxi associations, intermediaries and companies have reported back to us that more and more customers want the option of getting a fixed price when ordering a taxi,” said Transport Senator Anjes Tjarks (Greens) according to the statement.

    It is currently being examined whether a start of the offer in autumn is possible. The “Hamburger Abendblatt” had previously reported this. According to the report, the industry also stands behind the flat prices.

    “Younger people in particular have come to know and appreciate the binding advance price promise through companies like Uber, FreeNow or mobility apps like Switch,” Jan Grupe, chairman of the industry association Taxen-Union Hamburg, told the newspaper.

    Those who spontaneously hail a taxi on the street or get into one at a taxi rank will still pay the amount shown on the taximeter at the end of the ride, according to the authorities. According to the transport authority, there are currently 1,860 companies with almost 3,000 taxis in Hamburg. According to the annual taxi report, about 11 to 12 million tours were carried out in Hamburg’s taxi trade last year.

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    TMV demands: Flat fares for Berlin taxis must also apply to hire cars

    News from 23.02.2024 by Thomas Kanzler

    In response to announcements by Berlin’s Transport Senator Manja Schreiner to set in motion a regulation on flat fares and tariff corridors for taxis in Berlin in the first quarter, the Taxi and Hire Car Association Germany (TMV) has expressed criticism.

    Although the TMV is very pleased that flat fares and a tariff corridor are finally to be introduced in Berlin, TMV Vice President Thomas Kroker and TMV Federal Managing Director Patrick Meinhardt explained.

    “We, as the TMV Presidium, had an extensive discussion with Transport Senator Manja Schreiner in October. But flat prices alone are not enough. A minimum fare for hire cars must be introduced at the same time to prevent dumping prices. Only both together are effective,” Kroker and Meinhardt stressed.

    As a board member of Taxi Munich, Thomas Kroker subsequently sent the senator a detailed statement in which he presented the Munich model with the tariff corridors and the experience so far.

    “I now find these ideas, how we are tackling it in Munich, reflected in Senator Schreiner’s statement before the Mobility Committee of the Berlin House of Representatives,” said Kroker. “It’s nice to see how a central impetus in the unfair competition with Uber & Co. could be given through direct, personal contact.”

    For Kroker and Meinhardt, it is clear that it would have a nationwide signaling effect if the federal capital were to introduce both flat fares for taxis and minimum tariffs for hire cars as simultaneously as possible. Municipalities hesitate and waver in applying the Passenger Transport Act, and when they do apply it, they always stop halfway.

    “It is overdue that something finally happens. Many entrepreneurs are up to their necks in water and especially in Berlin everyone can currently see what machinations are everyday practice at Uber & Co.,” emphasized Kroker and Meinhardt. “Now we have the overdue opportunity to develop a fair competitive framework.”

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    Berlin: Taxi flat fares coming from April 2024

    News from 23.02.2024 by Thomas Kanzler

    On Wednesday, February 21, 2024, a major hearing on taxis and hire cars took place in the Berlin House of Representatives, at which, in addition to the taxi associations, Uber also took part. According to Transport Senator Manja Schreiner, flat fares for taxis will be introduced in Berlin in 2024.

    During the more than three-hour hearing, the introduction of flat fares and the tariff corridor was unanimously welcomed by all parliamentary groups and all experts, and tighter controls were urged. In the run-up to the meeting, there was extensive reporting by RBB on illegal hire cars in Berlin and, for the first time, the authority also confirmed that at least 1,000 completely illegal hire cars are on the road in Berlin, whose passengers are not insured in case of doubt. There was consensus in the committee that this “organized crime” must be stamped out. 

    Transport Senator Manja Schreiner of the CDU assured that flat fares for Berlin taxis would be introduced from April 2024. In addition, a tariff corridor with the possibility of 10 percent downwards and 20 percent upwards is to be initiated. Minimum prices are being sought by the Senate, according to Senator Schreiner, but no date was given yet.

    She further explained that further improving cooperation with the authorities is important to her. By increasing staff at the State Office for Citizens’ and Regulatory Affairs (LABO), which is responsible for supervision, and improving data matching with platform operators, illegal transport should be eliminated in the future.

    At the hearing, Vice President of the Federal Association of Taxis and Hire Cars (BVTM), Hermann Waldner, underlined the need for consistent and swift action and drew attention to the plight of the trade in drastic terms. He also stressed that flat fares will only contribute a small part to solving the problem if minimum prices for hire cars are not introduced quickly. Also clearly in favor of minimum prices were Alexander Mönch of platform operator FreeNow and the taxi social guide Klaus Meier. Legal expert Kase from the law firm BBG also called the Senate’s plans “sensible.” 

    Christoph Weigler of Uber did not directly address the question of minimum prices, and in the BVTM’s view sought to present himself as an innocent victim of criminal machinations. 

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    Get home safely during the carnival season – shuttle service with fixed price

    News from 16.01.2024 by Thomas Kanzler

    Get home safely—fixed price guaranteed. The Taxi-Holl shuttle service is aimed primarily at underage visitors who are out and about during the four-week “Schnurren”.

     In close cooperation with renowned partners, Taxi-Holl presents its shuttle service for the fifth season. With generous support from sponsor Metropolis Service, Taxi-Holl enables a safe journey home from selected events at a heavily subsidized fixed price.

     Ordering is straightforward via the Taxi-Holl app. By selecting the “Shuttle” tab and setting the event location and date, the safe journey home can be conveniently booked. Payment is made easily directly in the taxi before departure, offering additional convenience for passengers. 

    Shuttle service at “Schnurren in Gaggenau-Hörden”

    On the occasion of the first Schnurren in Gaggenau-Hörden, Taxi-Holl is presenting the revamped shuttle service. It is available with immediate effect and can be conveniently ordered via the Taxi-Holl smartphone app. The starting stop is at the Flößerhalle / North Car Park, Gaggenau-Hörden. Departure times are on 19.01.2024, 26.01.2024, 02.02.2024 and 09.02.2024 at 12:30 a.m. and 1:30 a.m. The fare is from €7 (at 12:30 a.m.) or from €17 per person, payable directly to the driver at the start of the ride. Thanks to the generous subsidy from sponsor Metropolis Service, this departure is particularly affordable for underage visitors. The catchment area extends from Baden-Baden via Rastatt to Rheinmünster and many other locations. The shuttle service is organized in cooperation with Metropolis Service GmbH. Further information can be found under the T&Cs.

    Shuttle service to the “Ski Ball at Kurhaus Baden-Baden”

     Taxi-Holl is also offering its advanced shuttle service for the Ski Ball at Kurhaus Baden-Baden. Ordering is easy via the app before departure. The starting stop is at the Kurhaus / Hotel Maison Messner, Baden-Baden. Departure times are on 04.02.2024 at 12:30 a.m., 1:30 a.m. and 2:30 a.m. The fare is €17 per person, payable directly to the driver at the start of the ride. The catchment area extends from Baden-Baden via Rastatt to Rheinmünster and many other locations. Here too, the shuttle service is organized in cooperation with Metropolis Service GmbH. Further information can be found on the Taxi Holl website.

    Police presence

    Several employees of the municipal alcohol prevention program “Hart am Limit” (Halt) will be present and carry out measures for youth protection and addiction prevention. In this context, alcohol checks will again be carried out in coordination with the police and security service. A security service will ensure order in and in front of the Flößerhalle and at the train stop. The police will also be involved in implementing the security concept and be present on site.

    Night-time special trains also running

    For Schnurren in Schmalzloch there are various transport options. The Albtal-Verkehrs-Gesellschaft (AVG) is strengthening its timetable on line S8 between Rastatt/Hörden and Forbach. Additional trains will run on the following nights: Thursday, 18 to Friday, 19 January; Thursday, 25 to Friday, 26 January; and Thursday, 1 to Friday, 2 February.

    The AVG will operate the following special trains on line S8 on these nights: Forbach 0:22 a.m. – Rastatt 1:06 a.m., departure in Hörden at 0:44 a.m.; Gaggenau 0:31 a.m. – Forbach 1:10 a.m., departure in Hörden at 0:37 a.m.; Rastatt 1:15 a.m. – Forbach 1:54 a.m., departure in Hörden at 1:34 a.m.

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    Free Now survey: Strong approval for taxi flat fares

    News from 04.10.2023 by Dietmar Fund

    The platform intermediary learned from a survey in Munich and other cities that taxi passengers consider a reliable fare important.

    In September, the Hamburg-based hire-car and taxi intermediary Free Now conducted a survey among more than 3,500 users in Munich and seven other major German cities to find out what opinion people have of the flat-fare rides that have only been possible in Munich since the beginning of September 2023. The result is unanimously positive.

    79 percent of respondents who have already tested the Munich offer said they rated the new offering as good or very good. Three quarters of those surveyed in Munich wanted to try the offer soon. Respondents from other major cities are 91 percent of the opinion that a flat-fare offer should also be introduced in their region. A total of 84 percent said a flat-fare offer could contribute to making taxi travel more attractive. Around 46 percent justified their positive attitude to flat fares by saying they would no longer have to worry about higher fares due to traffic.

    According to Free Now, approval of flat fares is particularly high among the frugal Swabians in Stuttgart. Hamburg, Cologne and Frankfurt follow closely behind with approval ratings of more than 90 percent each.

    Free Now is a joint venture of BMW Group and Mercedes-Benz Mobility.

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    Taxi flat fares: Berlin should take Munich as an example

    News from 31.08.2023 by Dietmar Fund

    The Federal Association of Taxis and Hire Cars (BVTM) is calling on the Berlin authorities to introduce a fixed-price corridor and, in addition, minimum tariffs for hire cars in the federal capital.

    For fair competition between taxis and hire cars, the City of Berlin must, like the City of Munich, introduce taxi flat fares and minimum tariffs for hire cars that are oriented towards the taxi tariff. This was demanded by Hermann Waldner, Managing Director of Taxi Berlin and Vice President of the Federal Association of Taxis and Hire Cars (BVTM), in a press release dated August 30, 2023.

    “The majority of passengers have long wanted flat fares. Services ordered via modern channels such as apps must also keep up with the times—and have a fixed price. Those who know the fare in advance need not fear nasty surprises if detours or traffic jams delay the ride,” Waldner said verbatim. In his view, companies that want to survive on the transport market of the future must be able to offer so-called travel chains. With them, customers could book the route from A to B with several means of transport such as airplane, train and taxi and pay a total price for the entire journey.

    As the two Munich taxi dispatch centers had previously pointed out, Waldner said in his press release addressed to the general public that the tariff corridor in Munich, which applies from September 1, 2023 for rides ordered by phone or app, will be monitored by the authorities.

    The background to the demand addressed to the City of Berlin is to give the taxi trade better chances against the hire cars that invade from outside and offer taxi-like services. Uber and Bolt, in particular, are very active there.

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    Federal taxi association welcomes Munich flat fares

    News from 29.08.2023 by Dietmar Fund

    The Federal Association of Taxis and Hire Cars sees the innovation first implemented in Munich as a model for all of Germany, to be followed by minimum charges for hire cars.

    The flat-fare option as an alternative to the normal taxi tariff, which will be introduced in Munich on September 1, 2023, could be a model for all of Germany. It offers three advantages: first, passengers know in advance what they have to pay at their destination. Second, it can reduce the competitive pressure from taxi-like offerings such as those from Uber. Third, passengers are spared higher prices due to traffic jams. So writes Michael Oppermann, Managing Director of the Federal Association of Taxis and Hire Cars, on August 29, 2023 in a press release from the older umbrella association.

    Flat fares could now be introduced in Germany’s more than 800 different tariff areas, following Munich’s example. However, it must not stop there, Oppermann writes. For fair competition between taxis and hire cars, minimum prices for hire cars must also be introduced, oriented towards the taxi tariff.

    How close these minimum prices for hire cars should be to taxi tariffs is currently the subject of several legal expert opinions on this regulatory option created by the amendment to the Passenger Transport Act (PBefG) two years ago. Therefore, attorney and PBefG commentator Thomas Grätz has already shown employees of licensing authorities in several federal states their scope for action in online seminars on behalf of various state associations of the Taxi and Hire Car Association Germany (TMV). As reported, he will soon be doing so again for the Bavarian licensing authorities.

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    Munich taxi dispatch centers explain the new taxi flat-fare option

    News from 25.08.2023 by Dietmar Fund

    The taxi dispatch centers IsarFunk and Taxi München eG have informed the public about the flat fares possible from September for orders via phone or app and explained their key parameters.

    From September 1, 2023, taxi passengers in Munich can agree a flat fare when pre-ordering via app or phone within the tariff area. It is always based on the shortest route, but does not apply to passengers who hail a taxi or get into one at a taxi rank. In such cases, the ride can only be charged according to the taxi tariff. Munich’s taxi dispatch center IsarFunk pointed this out in a press release on August 24, 2023.

    As IsarFunk further explains, the flat fares are set within a tariff corridor that ranges from 5 percent below the taxi tariff schedule to 20 percent above it. With regard to the “price surging” of the hire-car platform providers, who set their prices according to demand, Christian Hess, Managing Director of IsarFunk, explained that his dispatch center considers a “price yo-yo” to be unserious.

    Interesting for taxi dispatch centers and companies in other regions of Germany is the note that since the city council’s decision on July 25, 2023, the dispatch center has had to prepare within a few weeks for increased need for information in telephone orders and among its drivers. The voice assistants used for faster ordering and the app user interface—at IsarFunk from taxi.eu—also had to be adapted.

    In a press release circulated shortly afterwards, Thomas Kroker, a board member of Taxi München eG, factually pointed out the key parameters of the new “tariff corridor,” as it has been called in view of the amendment to the Passenger Transport Act (PBefG). It has enabled it for two years and in Munich it is being implemented for the first time.

    Taxi München eG also emphasizes that any detour is now no longer at the customer’s expense. “The basis is the basic price and the route length from the taxi tariff; the previous fare component ‘traffic-related waiting time’ is factored into the flat rate depending on the traffic situation specific to the time of day or day of the week,” the dispatch center writes verbatim. According to Thomas Kroker, the risk in the event of a traffic jam or detours now lies with the operator.

    He writes that it was “exciting” to implement the new procedure technically, train the driving staff accordingly and inform customers. The effort should pay off. “Taxi München eG is sure that flat rates will be the future of ride dispatching for the taxi trade,” Kroker writes in conclusion. His competitor Christian Hess of IsarFunk comes to the same conclusion and writes almost identically that the future of the taxi trade lies in the flat fare.

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    Fixed-price taxis should be possible

    News from 25 July 2019 by Dietmar Fund

    At the general meeting of Taxi Nürnberg eG, Frank Kuhle stated that the Bavarian state association could envisage fixed prices for advance booking of taxi rides under certain circumstances.

    To achieve the price transparency demanded by politicians in the course of an amendment to the Passenger Transportation Act (PBefG) and by many customers, the Bavarian Association of Taxi and Hire-Car Companies can envisage fixed prices for taxi rides “under certain circumstances.” Both in Bavaria and nationwide, they had proposed allowing them only for cashless payments and dispatched jobs, but not for walk-up passengers, in order to prevent haggling at taxi ranks. This was explained by Frank Kuhle, chairman of the Bavarian state association and a board member of the German Taxi and Hire Car Association (Bundesverband Taxi und Mietwagen e.V.), on 24 July 2019 during a panel discussion in the public part of the general meeting of Taxi Nürnberg eG. Kuhle said that, as a second level alongside the tariff, they envisage a leeway of ten percent in either direction.

    For the panel discussion, Wolfgang Ziegler, a board member of Taxi Nürnberg eG and Kuhle’s deputy in the state association, had also invited SPD city councillor Thorsten Brehm, CSU city councillor Marcus König and Verena Osgyan of Alliance 90/The Greens. The three have been nominated by their parliamentary groups as candidates for the 2020 Nuremberg mayoral election.

    All three emphasized in the discussion moderated by Ziegler that the interplay of buses, trains and taxis had proven itself in Nuremberg. SPD city councillor Brehm said his group had no interest in a U.S. corporation setting up shop here, skimming off profits and leaving drivers to bear the risks alone. It would not be good if lobbyists in Berlin were able to help write the law.

    CSU city councillor Marcus König distanced himself from his party colleague in the Federal Ministry of Transport. He is looking very strongly at rural areas but must not forget the cities. The taxi trade stands for quality and the CSU wants to create decent jobs. That is why the taxi industry is needed, and therefore the separation between taxis and hire cars via the return-to-base obligation must be maintained. König also believes that the taxi trade itself could provide pooled services.

    The Greens’ candidate Verena Osgyan pointed to peripheral city areas where bus routes were no longer profitable. However, she would prefer to see their coverage organized by the Nuremberg transport association. In her view, the business models discussed in the course of the PBefG amendment are aimed solely at autonomous driving with fleets. She does not want to open the floodgates to that too early.

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    The Left wants to enable fixed taxi prices

    News from 27 May 2019 by Dietmar Fund

    The Left’s parliamentary group in the Bundestag is making several proposals on ride pooling and wants to establish social standards.

    The Left in the Bundestag wants to enable municipalities, in their fare schedules, to provide that taxi driver and passenger can agree a “distance- and time-based fixed price before the start of the trip.” The aim is to make pricing more transparent for the passenger. The Left is calling for this in its motion for a resolution “Protect the taxi trade,” with which it brought the debate on the upcoming reform of the Passenger Transportation Act (PBefG) into parliament for the first time at the end of May 2019. As explained by the Left’s parliamentary group to Taxi heute, “time-based” means including waiting times in traffic jams in the fixed price; it is not about setting different prices depending on the time of day.

    The German Taxi and Hire Car Association (formerly BZP) proposes a similar solution, but only as an “advance booking price.” This would make it easier for travel platforms such as Booking.com to bundle complete packages of accommodation and station/airport transfers. For this reason, Hamburg already has an optional 30-euro fixed price for trips up to twelve kilometers.

    The Left wants to allow ride pooling (seat-by-seat rental) only for municipal transport companies as a special form of scheduled service. It should be subject to the obligation to operate and to carry, as well as to the regulations on fares and conditions of carriage. The Left’s lead transport expert on the issue, Andreas Wagner, criticized Andreas Scheuer’s plans for liberalization. “There is a risk that more vehicles will clog the streets and compete for scarce parking space,” he says. “There is also no ecological effect — more vehicles result in more air pollutants.”

    To prevent hire cars from “circling” in passenger-rich city districts, as is already observed in some major cities, the Left wants to enable municipalities to reserve certain areas for the taxi market and thus prevent on-site customer solicitation. In its motion, the Left also, like the German Taxi and Hire Car Association, advocates making hire-car services externally identifiable in order to better monitor compliance with the return-to-base requirement and the ban on street-hail jobs. Additionally, it wants to establish social standards for the hire-car industry to push back low wages and violations of labor law.

    As a rule, motions for resolutions by opposition parties are almost always rejected by the governing majority in the Bundestag. However, they offer a way to put topics on the agenda and to put pressure on the government, for example with a public expert hearing in the relevant Bundestag committee. (roe)

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    Taxi sharing at a fixed price without a taximeter

    News from 10 April 2019 by Dietmar Fund

    In Hamburg, mytaxi has received approval for shared taxi rides at fixed prices.

    The Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg has approved a new special agreement for mytaxi that enables taxi sharing at pre-calculated fixed prices in a large part of Hamburg’s urban area. Anyone who agrees to a detour is supposed to travel significantly cheaper than under the valid taxi tariff. Therefore, for trips where the requester has indicated in the app that they agree to a sharing ride, the taximeter remains switched off.

    According to mytaxi, the requester is informed what their shared taxi ride will cost. A base price, distance and travel time are parameters that go into the price calculation. Also factored in are waiting time, the probability of a shared ride, and supply and demand. Customers who want to be driven directly to their destination alone will continue to travel according to the taxi tariff.

    Senator Michael Westhagemann is quoted, as a representative of the city, in mytaxi’s press release as saying that now “more than 60 taxi companies” in Hamburg can offer their passengers “with just under 1,000 drivers” a new service. In doing so, they demonstrate the innovative strength of Hamburg’s taxi industry.

    If a passenger indicates in the app that they are willing to join a pooled ride, they travel cheaper than at the taxi tariff even if no pooled ride materializes. In that respect, a rule remains in place that was established when mytaximatch was introduced at the end of 2017. This was stated by Alexander Mönch upon request. He is responsible for marketing in Germany and Austria.

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    MOIA promotes fixed price to commuters

    News from 05 February 2019 by Dietmar Fund

    Volkswagen’s mobility subsidiary has expanded its service to cover all of Hanover and wants to specifically win commuters there as customers.

    After extending its ride-sharing concept to all of Hanover on 1 February 2019, Volkswagen subsidiary MOIA began on 4 February targeting commuters for its services. Until 15 February, a marketing campaign is offering trips for a maximum of five euros during rush hours. This price applies from Monday to Thursday between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m., and on Friday from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.

    The company justifies this targeting by saying that working people commuting from the outskirts of Hanover to the city center contribute significantly to inner-city congestion. MOIA complements local public transport and enables working people to reach all destinations in the city conveniently and in an eco-friendly way without a private car, the company writes.

    To extend its service to the entire city area of Hanover, MOIA increased its fleet from 35 to 76 vehicles. The electric vehicles favored by politicians are also to be introduced in Hanover in 2019.

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    MOIA advertises with a low fixed price

    News from 14 November 2018 by Dietmar Fund

    During the promotional period you can travel across Hanover for a maximum of five euros.

    With the slogan “With a price cap through Hanover,” VW mobility subsidiary MOIA is promoting trips for a maximum of five euros. This upper amount applies to rides across the entire service area in Hanover during the promotional period until 25 November 2018.

    Additionally, passengers who take advantage of this special offer can add further passengers to their trip for one euro each. “Leave your car and hop in,” say the advertising messages. This suggests that MOIA aims to foster the shift away from private cars desired by the city fathers.

    The Lower Saxony Transport Association (GVN) sharply criticizes the MOIA campaign. The company wants to buy market share in Hanover’s public transport with many millions from parent company VW behind it, writes Gunther Zimmermann, managing director of the Taxi and Hire Car Division in the GVN. Small and medium-sized companies do not have the financial strength to keep up in such a competition.

    Zimmermann regards the bargain-price campaign as an attempt to fill poorly utilized vehicles. It is high time to put an end to a large corporation’s market-displacing behavior.

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    Northern German taxi representatives can envisage fixed prices

    News from 24 January 2016 by Dietmar Fund

    The customer desire for fixed prices could be addressed by adapting the tariff schedules. This crystallized at the “Glückstadt Circle” of northern industry representatives.

    More and more frequent travelers, corporate customers and users of booking platforms would like to know before the trip what a taxi ride will cost. This customer demand for fixed prices, which must not be below the local taxi tariff, could be met by adjusting the tariff schedules without having to change the current regulatory framework. This proposal by Christian Brüggmann and Thomas Lohse, two board members of Taxen-Union Hamburg Hansa e.V., found favor with many representatives of northern German taxi associations and dispatch centers at the meeting of the Glückstadt Circle on 22 January 2016.

    As hosts of the industry meet-up, the Hamburg-based Brüggmann and Lohse reported that the Hamburg licensing authority was very sympathetic to the customer request for fixed prices. From the perspective of the two board members, such fixed-price rides should have to be processed cashlessly so that taxi drivers do not put money in their own pockets.

    The Hanover dispatch-center representative Wolfgang Pettau also spoke in favor of fixed prices that should be anchored in the taxi tariff. His dispatch center Hallo Taxi 3811 already offers, together with the local transport operator Üstra, taxi rides that are processed cashlessly and grant a discount of up to 20 percent on the tariff anchored in the tariff schedule, of which the executing taxi operator bears 10 percent in each case.

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    Shared taxi at a monthly flat rate planned

    News from 15 October 2012 by Editorial staff (general)

    Taxmobil AG is planning a pilot project in Frankfurt next year in which passengers can be transported door-to-door by shared taxis as often as they like for 48 euros per month.

    According to the Frankfurter Neue Presse, the pilot project is to be launched in the first half of 2013 together with the Taxi Association Frankfurt. The so-called Taxmobil Card at a monthly flat rate of 48 euros, which is personal and non-transferable, is initially to be valid at Frankfurt Airport, in Frankfurt itself and in Offenbach.

    “Taxis and buses have too little utilization, public transport is heavily subsidized but has too few users, buses and trains run mostly empty and the taxis are standing around. In return, we are being overrun by millions of private cars causing congestion, accidents, air pollution and chaos. And there is rarely more than one person in a car,” Taximobil writes on its website on the background to the mobility concept.

    Taxmobil sees itself as a mobility hub that uses “the vehicles and networks of the taxi industry and public transport” to provide its service. Specifically, 300 vehicles are to be used as shared taxis at the start of the pilot project via the Taxi Association Frankfurt. If the demand previously identified in surveys in Frankfurt and the surrounding area is confirmed, the plan is to expand nationwide.

    (sk)

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    Mercedes raises fixed taxi prices

    News from 17 January 2012 by Editorial staff (general)

    Taxi operators planning to purchase a new B- or E-Class soon should order in January. After that, the “Das Taxi” fixed-price models will be more expensive.

    According to Mercedes-Benz sales, the following prices apply to the special models tailored to the taxi trade for orders from the cutoff date of 1 February 2012:

    ■ B 180 CDI “Das Taxi” (series T 246): 22,100 euros net
    ■ E 200 CDI “Das Taxi” sedan (series W 212): 29,100 euros net
    ■ E 200 NGT “Das Taxi” sedan (series W 212): 31,100 euros net
    ■ E 200 CDI “Das Taxi” T-Model (S 212): 31,100 euros net

    This makes the E-Class taxis 560 euros more expensive than in 2011, corresponding to a price increase of around 2 percent for the diesel sedan and around 1.5 percent for the T-Model and the natural gas sedan. After the model change, the B-Class becomes 4.25 percent (900 euros) more expensive as a taxi.

    All special models come as standard with extensive taxi equipment, an automatic transmission, heated front seats, integrated child seats, the THERMATIC automatic climate control and many other features, and can be individually supplemented with additional options where there is no technical exclusion.

    Beyond the existing price advantage, the “Das Taxi” models are no longer discountable. As an alternative to the special models, however, Mercedes-Benz continues to grant the following taxi fleet purchaser discounts on a taxi or hire car with individual equipment:

    ■ On models of the B, C, E, S-Class and the Viano: 15 percent discount
    ■ On models of the Vito: 20 percent discount
    ■ On models of the Sprinter: 25 percent discount

    Both the “Das Taxi” special models and taxis and hire cars with individual equipment can be financed via Mercedes-Benz Bank for up to 60 months. For the B, C, E and S-Class as well as Vito, Viano and Sprinter, a special taxi financing applies with an effective interest rate of 2.99 percent.

    In addition, Mercedes offers taxi special packages for Vito and Viano that, according to the manufacturer, include an additional price advantage of 1,864 euros (Vito) and 1,990 euros (Viano) beyond the discount.

    Note: All prices net

    (sk)

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    New B-Class again with fixed taxi price

    News from 08 September 2011 by Editorial staff (general)

    The new B-Class will celebrate its world premiere at the IAA next week. Mercedes has already revealed further details, including the price and sales start of the taxi version.

    The most important info for taxi operators in advance: From 15 September, the new B-Class in the diesel version B 180 CDI can be ordered as a taxi. The fixed price is 21,940 euros (plus VAT, not eligible for fleet buyer discount) and thus 740 euros more than the predecessor model.

    Included in the price, in addition to the usual provisions for taxi equipment, are among other things the new single-arm roof sign, integrated child seats in the rear and a radio antenna with integrated GPS receiver.

    The diesel engine in the B 180 CDI produces, as in the predecessor, 109 hp, but its displacement has been reduced to 1.8 liters and optimized in many details. For the first time, the diesel is installed transversely at Mercedes-Benz. The maximum torque is 250 Nm from 1,400 rpm.

    Another first is the new 7G-DCT dual-clutch transmission, used for the first time in the taxi version of the new B-Class. Thanks to seven gears, it is, according to the manufacturer, extremely variable in matching engine speed. The ECO start-stop function is also on board as standard.

    Also standard for the first time is the “Collision Prevention Assist” assistance system, which warns the driver visually and acoustically of detected obstacles and primes the brake assist for the most precisely timed braking possible. This is initiated as soon as the driver depresses the brake pedal firmly.

    You can get your first visual impressions of the new B-Class in our image gallery.

    (sk)

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    Fixed taxi price also for the Honda Civic Hybrid

    News from 18 February 2010 by Editorial staff (general)

    Alongside the Accord Tourer, the CR-V and the hybrid Insight, Honda is now also offering the Civic Hybrid as a taxi at a fixed price.

    After Honda had already put together fixed taxi prices for the CR-V, Insight and Accord Tourer (we reported) and had further reduced the latter (more on this in our report from 4 January 2010), the manufacturer announced today that the second hybrid model, the Civic, is now available with the Intax taxi package at an all-in price (17,990 euros). According to Honda, the Civic Hybrid with a total output of 115 hp has a combined fuel consumption of 4.9 liters per 100 kilometers, costs only 28 euros in annual vehicle tax and, in the Comfort trim, like the Insight (98 hp, 4.4 liters/100 km, 28 euros vehicle tax), features a CVT automatic transmission, automatic climate control with pollen filter, a multifunction steering wheel, a front center armrest, 15-inch alloy wheels and a CD radio with MP3 functionality and AUX input. On request, an extended warranty to 3 years or 300,000 kilometers and a taxi roadside assistance policy are available for both hybrid taxis. Note: As usual, the prices are net prices that already include the customary fleet buyer discount. Photo: Honda

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    Fixed prices also for Honda taxis

    News from 22 October 2009 by Editorial staff (general)

    Honda has defined attractive entry prices for its taxi models Accord Tourer, CR-V and Insight.

    The hybrid Insight can already be ordered as a taxi for 15,900 euros. The CR-V with the 2.0-liter gasoline engine, which can be converted to run on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and automatic transmission costs 19,990 euros. The trio is completed by the Accord Tourer. In conjunction with the proven 2.2-liter diesel with 150 hp and automatic transmission, the estate is now available from 22,900 euros (all prices net). The taxi package is included in the price of all three offers — as is the fleet buyer discount, which has already been factored into the all-in price.

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    Fixed price at Citroën for Grand C4 Picasso and C5 Tourer

    News from 05 October 2009 by Editorial staff (general)

    So after all: Contrary to our report in Newsletter No. 20 last Friday, the fixed-price offer for Citroën taxi models now applies to both the Grand C4 Picasso and the C5 Tourer.

    For the latter, however, not for the originally announced HDi diesel with 136 hp and automatic transmission, but for the unit with 163 hp (HDi 165 FAP) and automatic. According to the manufacturer, this powertrain is characterized not only by higher output but also by significantly lower consumption and, thanks to Euro 5 classification, lower emissions. All orders already placed for the C5 Tourer HDi 135 FAP with automatic will be converted to the new engine. Whether the originally announced fixed price of just under 24,000 euros for the C5 estate will be maintained despite the more powerful engine will be announced by Citroën in the next few days. We will then update this report accordingly. As Citroën confirmed to taxi heute, however, all orders already placed for the C5 Tourer HDi 135 automatic will in any case be converted to the 163 hp engine at no extra charge. There is no confusion, however, about the all-in price for the Taxi Edition with predefined equipment and taxi package for the Grand C4 Picasso HDi 110 (109 hp): The seven-seater is offered as a taxi for 19,990 euros. There is also a breath of fresh air personnel-wise at Citroën: Long-serving taxi manager Kurt Peters is moving to another area of the company. He is succeeded by his colleague Valérie Hochedé, who has worked for Citroën for five years and most recently served as assistant to the sales director for Germany. Photo: Intax

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    6.10 euros! Bielefeld introduces a fixed price for short trips

    News from 12 June 2008 by Editorial staff (general)

    No more hassle over short trips. From Monday, a new taxi tariff will apply in the Westphalian city of Bielefeld. Every taxi ride will then start at 5.80 euros during the day, and 6.10 euros at night. This base price includes the first two kilometers and a total of five minutes of waiting time.

    Only after the second kilometer does the taximeter add every further meter in ten-cent increments, with the kilometer costing 1.50 euros (1.60 euros at night). Waiting time is also recalculated after the first two kilometers at 26 euros per hour. If there is still a “time credit” remaining from the first two kilometers and the five minutes of waiting time included therein, it lapses. With just over 200 taxis, Bielefeld serves 323,000 inhabitants. With the new tariff system, it is so far the only city of this size to introduce a base fare including the first kilometers. Previously, this had only been practiced in a few small rural districts. The licensing authority responsible for the taxi tariff hopes that this new tariff model and the associated fixed price for short distances will provide better price transparency. Bielefeld’s industry representatives hope that the higher base price will reduce frustration over the rare extremely short trips and that this will certainly no longer be taken out on the customer.

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    Mitsubishi with fixed taxi price

    News from 19 March 2007 by Editorial staff (general)

    Following Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi is also offering a taxi model as an all-inclusive package: The Grandis DI-D taxi is now available at a fixed price.

    In the “Invite” trim line, the Grandis DI-D as a taxi now costs 20,690 euros; in the “Intense” version it is 2,000 euros more (prices excluding VAT). Included in the fixed price in each case are delivery and a 3-year warranty up to 200,000 kilometers (ex works 3 years up to 100,000 km plus extended warranty up to 200,000 km). Also included for three years is the VDK taxi mobility protection policy (including breakdown and accident assistance with taxi replacement vehicle under the terms of Signal Iduna insurance), the taxi basic package (incl. pre-installation for radio, roof sign and taximeter, taximeter console, taxi panic alarm, central interior light control, foil wrap) as well as faux leather seat covers. The offer is valid for orders up to 30 June 2007.

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    Content automatically translated.

    Taxi-Fahrzeuge (Pkw) , Taxi-Newsletter, Taxameter, Taxi-Fahrer , BZP – Deutscher Taxi- und Mietwagenverband , Straßenverkehrsordnung (StVO) , Krankenbeförderung , Weiterbildung , Taxi-Konzessionen , Verkehrspolitik , Mietwagenbranche , Taxi-Apps , Berufskraftfahrer-Qualifikations-Gesetz BKrFQG) , Taxizentralen , Personal, Gehälter, Arbeitsschutz , Wirtschaftsnachrichten , Werbung , Taxi-Folierung , Taxi-Umrüster , Straßenverkehr , Elektromobilität, Taxifuhrpark und -flottenmanagement , Taxi-Versicherungen , Hybrid, Diesel, Erdgas , Taxi-Magazin

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