Uber and Cabify have suspended operations in Barcelona after changes in local licensing laws.
So why? It seems that the Catalan Government is insisting on a 15-minute delay before a driver can pick passengers up. In the Uber business model when you want a ride there and then – this isn’t helpful. These new rules have been put on, thanks to pressure from taxi drivers who have been striking and demanding more controls on VTCs (private hire vehicles with driver).
The new restrictions have led Uber to make the decision to drop service. Local competitor Cabify is also hit by the same restriction, and has also suspended services.
Both have chosen to suspend services in the meantime.
It’s estimated that 3,500 drivers in both companies will be affected by the Catalan Government move.
Back to Taxis (but thankfully – connectivity works)
It seems in this round, the Taxi drivers have won, with all the joys that taxi drivers can bring. Thankfully, Barcelona is well-connected in terms of Bus, Train and Metro – giving you a lot of options when moving around the city.
And sometimes when travelling, shifting to these modes can be quicker and easier.
Or if in doubt, fire up Google Maps and fire up the transit directions. With data integration these days, it’s becoming a lot more simpler to get A to B routes with reliable timings.
There’s a lot more background on the El Pais article, but if you’re intent on moving around without the aid of public transport – you’re back to taxis….
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