London's pedicabs could be forced to turn down music and charge by the minute

"Transport for London (TfL) is releasing its detailed proposals as it vows to remove unsafe vehicles from the streets after overwhelming support for regulation in an initial consultation earlier this year. The proposals include enhanced criminal record checks and medical checks for drivers, and annual licensing inspections for their vehicles, with checks on brakes, tyres, lighting and batteries for electrically powered pedicabs."

"In further bad news for lovers of pop music, which is often blasted out to the streets via loudspeakers, TfL also proposes prohibiting the use of externally amplified audio on pedicabs. Fares would also be regulated and charged by the minute after reports of users, especially tourists, being charged hundreds of pounds for short rides. The level of pricing has yet to be set but some pedicab operators have said that lower rates would drive them out of the business."

"TfL and City Hall were also keen to highlight the positive side of pedicabs describing them as zero-emission, flexible and a potentially safe and enjoyable travel option for the capital's vibrant night-time economy. TfL said it aimed to ensure that pedicabs were driven, maintained and operated in a safe and professional manner, while preserving their role as a sustainable and enjoyable way to experience the city."

Transport for London is proposing comprehensive regulation of pedicabs including enhanced criminal-record and medical checks for drivers, mandatory ID, licence plates and annual vehicle inspections covering brakes, tyres, lighting and batteries. The proposals would introduce minute-based, regulated fares after reports of tourists being charged hundreds for short rides, and would prohibit externally amplified audio on pedicabs. Authorities describe pedicabs as zero-emission, flexible and potentially safe for the night-time economy while aiming to remove unsafe vehicles and ensure pedicabs are driven, maintained and operated in a safe, professional and sustainable manner, with implementation likely in early 2026.

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