London's PHV Drivers: Outnumbering Pigeons by a Mile?
Ah, London. A city that keeps you guessing. Double-decker buses? Iconic. Black cabs? Classic. But the real kings (and queens) of the road these days? Our intrepid PHV drivers.
But just how many are there, navigating the city's labyrinthine streets and dodging rogue pigeons (because let's be honest, those things are fearless)?
Buckle Up, We're Diving into Driver Demographics
The latest figures from Transport for London (TfL) suggest there are a whopping over 99,000 licensed PHV drivers in the capital. That's more people than live in, well, a small country. Imagine a conga line of cars long enough to stretch from Buckingham Palace to...well, probably another Buckingham Palace (because London, that's how you roll).
Fun Fact: That's roughly 10 PHV drivers for every black cab driver. Looks like the black cab knowledge test might need a bit of an update, eh?
Where Do All These Drivers Come From?
London is a melting pot, and that applies to its PHV drivers too. You'll find folks from all walks of life, with experience ranging from seasoned veterans to enthusiastic newbies. Think of it as a global taxi service, all crammed into a single, gloriously chaotic city.
But Wait, There's More!
The number of PHV drivers is constantly on the move, just like...well, PHV drivers. New licensing schemes and regulations can cause fluctuations, so the exact number might be a tad higher or lower than that juicy 99,000 figure.
FAQ: You Ask, We (Kinda) Answer
How to become a PHV driver in London?
Check out the Transport for London website (https://tfl.gov.uk/info-for/taxis-and-private-hire/licensing/private-hire-driver-licence) for all the info you need, including the infamous Knowledge test (although, maybe not as infamous as the black cab one these days).
How much do PHV drivers earn in London?
That depends on various factors like experience, hours worked, and the platform they work with. But hey, if you're good at navigating traffic jams and dodging rogue pigeons, it could be a decent earner.
How to avoid surge pricing on a PHV?
Planning is key! Try booking your ride in advance during non-peak hours. Public transport can also be your friend, especially for shorter distances (although, dodging those rogue pigeons on the tube is a whole other story).
How to tip a PHV driver?
Most apps allow in-app tipping, but cash is always appreciated (just make sure it's not covered in pigeon feathers).
How to be a good PHV passenger?
Be clear about your destination, have your payment method ready, and avoid last-minute route changes. Bonus points for being friendly and not demanding a singalong to "Bohemian Rhapsody" (unless, of course, the driver is totally up for it).
