Since 1 February 2017, SMRT Taxis has been rolling-out taxis at selected areas in Singapore for rent to drivers with a valid Taxi Driver Vocational License (TDVL). Drivers are now able to rent the taxis in three-hourly blocks by picking up and returning the taxi at a location most convenient to them.
SMRT Taxis made the announcement on 26 January 2017 as part of its efforts to offer potential drivers greater income opportunity and more flexibility in managing their work schedule. The taxi operator also aims to increase the availability of taxis on the road to keep up with commuter demands. Called the SMRT Taxi Share, the initiative is a first in the industry.
Taxi drivers are not required to purchase season parking for the rented vehicle and do not have to seek a relief driver to cover the cost of the rented vehicle, added SMRT Taxis. Servicing and maintenance of the taxis will also be undertaken by the company.
Improving the Industry
“In Singapore’s evolving transport landscape, there is a growing demand among taxi partners for greater flexibility in planning their work schedule. SMRT Taxi Share enhances utilisation of assets and improves our operational efficiency. The scheme allows us to tap into a large number of inactive TDVL holders and have taxis ply the road according to commuter demand,” said SMRT Taxis and Private Hire Services Managing Director Tony Heng.
National Taxi Association Executive Advisor Ang Hin Kee called the initiative a move in the right direction and encouraged more taxi operators “to continue with different rental schemes to meet the different needs of drivers.”
