taxi

A taxi, also known as a cab, is a vehicle licensed to transport passengers between locations for a fare. Taxis are typically used on a shared or private basis, with the fare calculated either by a taximeter that measures distance and time, or by a prearranged price. Most taxis operate through a dispatch system that may involve street hail, taxi stands, phone bookings, or digital platforms.

History and development have seen taxis evolve from horse-drawn hackneys in the 17th–19th centuries to motorized taxis in the early 20th century. The taximeter, which determines the fare based on distance traveled and waiting time, emerged in the late 19th century and became a defining feature of regulated taxi service. Today, taxis are found in urban and rural areas worldwide, with variations in color schemes, branding, and license requirements.

Regulation and licensing vary by jurisdiction. Authorities set vehicle safety standards, driver qualifications, insurance requirements, fare structures, and sometimes limits on the number of licenses or medallions. Specialized taxicab services, such as wheelchair-accessible taxis, exist to improve mobility for people with disabilities. In many places, taxis employ technology such as GPS dispatch, digital payment, and in-cab tablets to improve efficiency and service delivery.

Competition and trends include the rise of ride-hailing apps that offer app-based booking and dynamic pricing, prompting regulatory responses in some markets. Environmental considerations have encouraged the adoption of hybrid and electric taxis in various regions, aligning urban mobility with sustainability goals.