Taxicabs

A taxicab, or taxi, is a vehicle for hire that transports passengers between locations of their choice. Taxicabs are typically licensed and operated by a taxi company or by independent drivers, and they are subject to local regulations governing vehicle safety, insurance, driver qualifications, and fare structures. Fares are usually based on a base charge plus distance traveled and/or time spent in the taxi, often measured by a meter and supplemented by surcharges for specific trips or peak periods. Payment methods commonly include cash and electronic cards.

The regulation of taxicabs varies by city and country. Many urban systems use a medallion, license, or permit framework to limit supply, ensure service standards, and control entry into the market. Dispatching may be done through street hail, telephone dispatch, radio dispatch, or digital platforms. Vehicle requirements typically cover age, condition, accessibility options, and environmental standards.

Historically, taxicabs replaced horse-drawn cabs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and evolved into modern motorized fleets. In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, digital dispatch and ride-hailing apps expanded the market by connecting riders with drivers through smartphones, prompting regulatory updates related to licensing, insurance, safety, and data privacy.

Today, taxicabs vary widely in vehicle type, accessibility features, and fare structures across regions. Many cities promote wheelchair-accessible taxis and alternative energy vehicles to address mobility and environmental goals, while ongoing debates address competition, regulation, and public safety.