Here's a look now at how car-hailing apps have challenged Hangzhou's traditional taxi service. There are some 10,000 licensed cabs under the management of some 70 companies citywide. The apps Didi Kuaidi and Uber appeared in Hangzhou just last year.
Their impact was immediate. Low prices and an easy hailing process have made the apps a game-changer in the industry. Statistics show that in April some 23 million rides were made on taxis in the city.
But as the car hailing services gathered speed that number dropped by almost a third in July, which is the tourist peak season. Less rides means less money for taxi drivers.
Monthly incomes on average dropped by over 700 yuan forcing some 400 drivers to quit. The fierce competition also sparked citywide protests of taxi drivers against Didi Kuaid and Uber drivers.