Question 1

What advantages are there to buying a minibus taxi?

Accepted Answer

There are many different types of vehicles that can be used as minibus taxis. Some popular models include:

Ford Tourneo
Renault Trafic

Question 2

What are the licensing requirements for operating a minibus as a taxi in the UK?

Accepted Answer

To operate a minibus as a taxi, you need a Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) license issued by your local council, which includes a vehicle inspection to ensure it meets safety and comfort standards. Drivers must also hold a valid PCV (Passenger Carrying Vehicle) license if carrying nine or more passengers.

Question 3

What size of minibus is best for taxi use in the UK?

Accepted Answer

The best size depends on your service offering (e.g., airport transfers, school runs). Minibuses ranging from 9 to 17 seats are popular for flexibility in passenger numbers while considering operating costs and vehicle maneuverability.

Question 4

Are there any grants available for purchasing minibuses for taxi use?

Accepted Answer

While specific grants for minibuses used as taxis are rare, you can look for general business grants or loans offered by local councils or government schemes that support small businesses or environmentally friendly vehicles.

Question 5

What factors should I consider when choosing a minibus for taxi use?

Accepted Answer

Consider fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, passenger capacity, accessibility features (like wheelchair access), and comfort. Also, think about the minibus's emissions profile, especially if operating in low-emission zones.

Question 6

How do I finance a minibus purchase for taxi use?

Accepted Answer

Financing options include loans, leasing, or hire purchase agreements. It's advisable to shop around and compare offers from different financial institutions and consider any financing deals directly from vehicle manufacturers.

Question 7

Do minibuses used as taxis require special insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you'll need a tailored insurance policy that covers the specific use of the vehicle as a minibus taxi. This includes public liability insurance and cover for the vehicle, driver, and passengers.

Question 8

What are the maintenance and running costs of operating a minibus taxi?

Accepted Answer

Running costs include fuel, insurance, maintenance, and repairs. Minibuses generally incur higher running costs than standard taxis due to their size and the number of passengers they carry, so it's important to factor these into your budget.

Question 9

Can I use a used minibus as a taxi?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a used minibus can be converted into a taxi, provided it passes the local authority's vehicle inspection and meets all the necessary safety and environmental standards. Ensure the vehicle's history is thoroughly checked for mileage, previous use, and any potential issues.

Question 10

What modifications might I need to make to a minibus to use it as a taxi?

Accepted Answer

Modifications can include installing a fare meter, taxi signage, a wheelchair ramp, and seating adjustments to comply with accessibility requirements. Always ensure modifications meet the legal standards set by the local licensing authority.

Question 11

Are there specific emissions or environmental standards my minibus must meet?

Accepted Answer

Yes, especially if operating in urban areas with low-emission zones. Your minibus will need to meet certain emissions standards to avoid additional charges. Consider investing in an ultra-low emission vehicle (ULEV) or an electric minibus to future-proof your taxi service against evolving environmental regulations.

MINIBUSES

RENAULT TRAFIC PASSENGER

Reserve your new Renault Trafic Extra and Advance models in Manual & Automatic now. Our stock, comes with useful factory options such as Global A/C & Heating, Reverse Camera, 360 Parking Sensors, Heated Drivers Seat, BLIS and much more.

The new 2.0L Diesel engine means the Trafic competes directly with the Ford Tourneo and offers a squarer, deeper boot space as well as a wealthy specification. What is better, the new Trafic is chain driven.

THE ALL NEW FORD TOURNEO CUSTOM

Our stock of the All New Ford Tourneo has started to arrive and we have limited stock still available to buy. Available in various colours and in either manual or automatic plus a wealth of specification as standard. Reserve now limited availability.

THE ALL NEW 2025 FORD TOURNEO PHEV

The Taxi Shop is proud to offer the brand new TFL compliant PHEV Ford Tourneo in the completely overhauled, state of the art 9 seater minibus that is jam-packed with impressive technology and an amazing specification as standard.

THE ALL NEW FORD TRANSIT MINIBUS – FROM 11 TO 18 SEATS

The long standing, well established British classic and go-to workhorse for those looking for up to a 17 passenger capacity, the Ford Transit Minibus is now available to order.

Available in three length and height configurations, with 3 engines, gearboxes and trim levels to choose from, the Transit is one of the most competitively priced, reliable big minibuses on the market. Check out the highlighted models below.