© dpa
Taxi rides in Berlin became 20 per cent more expensive on average on Tuesday.
The new tariffs affect practically all basic and kilometre prices as well as surcharges in tariff levels 2 and 3. Only the flat rate for short distances up to two kilometres (tariff level 1) remains unchanged at € 6. The basic fare increases from € 3.90 to € 4.30.
The Senate decided to increase taxi fares at the beginning of November. Mobility Senator Bettina Jarasch (Greens) justified the step at the time with increased costs for the taxi industry. These were due to high energy prices, but also to a higher minimum wage.
The industry as a whole is looking to the future with concern. In addition to higher energy prices, competitors such as the ride service provider Uber are also causing problems for taxi drivers. With Uber, customers find out how much the ride will cost before they book. The taxi guild could imagine such a model for the approximately 5,500 taxis in the capital.