A Study In Yellow: Taxis Around The World

Lewis Taxis • 23 August 2023

The taxi, also known around the world as a taxicab or cab, is a type of vehicle that an individual or group of passengers can hire to deliver you from A to B. While they all share this common goal, taxis can vary wildly from place to place around the world.


Here is how some taxis from around the world are different.


The Four Types Of Taxicabs

The first type of taxi is the hackney carriage, also known as public hire. These taxis are available to be hailed on the street by anyone. Second are private hire vehicles, which are licensed for pre-booking only. In recent years there has been a rise in private hire vehicles as apps become more popular. The final two are taxi buses and limousines. Taxi buses usually are larger vehicles operating on pre-set routes, while limousines are specialised vehicles available for hire.


United States & Canada

Most cities in the United States and Canada have a licensing scheme that restricts the number of taxicabs allowed, which helps to regulate the industry. Often drivers own cars and are hired by companies, however, cab companies who own the vehicles are often popular. A yellow taxi is an iconic symbol of the United States, however, taxis do not need to be this colour.


United Kingdom

Taxicabs are a very popular way to travel in the United Kingdom, with hundreds of thousands of licensed taxi drivers. London taxis are especially well known, referred to as Hackney carriages. They are often seen as a symbol of the United Kingdom and are often a standard design and black to be easily recognised by people looking to hire them.


Sri Lanka

Not all taxis are regular four-wheel drives. In Sri Lanka, the most popular form of taxicab is an auto rickshaw, more commonly known as a tuk-tuk. They are popular in countries with tropical climates or densely packed streets, as they can fit into spaces that larger vehicles do not. They are also relatively inexpensive to own and operate compared to some of the more common types of taxis you see.


Transportation Hire From Lewis Taxis

If you’re looking for a reliable professional taxi company based in Coventry, look no further than Lewis Taxis. We can offer your private and corporate trips across the UK, as well as efficient courier services. We have been operating for over 50 years, helping our customers get where they need to go comfortably, reliably and affordably.


We offer 24/7 taxi hire services for both short and long distances, making sure that anytime you need us we’re on hand. We can help with holiday transfers, business trips, shuttling guests and much more, so get in touch today to find out more and book your taxi now.

Stratford-upon-Avon
by Lewis Taxis 27 December 2023
Touring the English countryside can be fun and hassle-free when you book a taxi to travel in. Learn our favourite places to visit in the Midlands.
Couple using a taxi after a shopping trip
by Lewis Taxis 27 December 2023
Being without your own means of transportation can be more limiting than just travel. So how can a taxi service help with your weekly big shop?
Female student waiting for a taxi
by Lewis Taxis 27 December 2023
Your first time using a cab can be daunting when you are a student in a new city. Read our guide of things to know before making a local taxi booking.