China has announced a new policy for online taxi-hailing, essentially establishing much needed standards for the booming industry.
Online car-hailing apps such as Didi Taxi, Shenzhou taxi, and Uber are currently enjoying immense popularity in China, with more than 200 million users. The policy only applicable for cars smaller than a seven-seater.. According to the new rules, to qualify, private cars are required to have travel data recording devices -- such as emergency alarm systems and GPS -- and they also have to meet certain technical standards.
You might also feel safer now when hailing a taxi...as the new law regulates who can offer this service. Only drivers with at least three years' driving experience, have a good record on the road, as well as no criminal convictions, qualify. And, as stipulated in the new policy, in case of any accident, both the driver and the platform should take responsibility. The policy also covers other areas, including the price and privacy protection of the customers. Many online car-hailing companies believe the new policy can greatly contribute to further standardizing this emerging market in China.