What Things to Look for When Hiring a PCO Car
Hiring a PCO car is one of the most important choices for any private hire driver in London. A good choice can make daily driving easier and more profitable. Therefore, your PCO car should be reliable, safe, and cost-effective while keeping you comfortable and helping you provide better service to your passengers.
Choosing a car is not only about looks, it’s about how long it will help you stay on the road and keep earning. Here are the main things you should consider before hiring your PCO car.
Kia eNiro
£125/week
Kia Niro 2
£260/week
Mercedes Benz EQE
£325/week
Mercedes E300 2025
£375/week
Mercedes-Benz E300e
£320/week
Toyota Prius
£200/week
Article Highlights
Look for the following things when hiring a PCO car:
- Fuel efficiency
- Driver and passenger comfort
- Reliability, and more.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel is an ongoing expense for private hire drivers. A normal week for PCO drivers involves 800-1,000 miles. The difference between a car that gives 40 MPG and 60 MPG is around 50 to 70 pounds in savings per week.
Over a month or a year, these savings can add up significantly and make a big difference for drivers who need every pound to cover their weekly PCO car hire expenses.
Choose a car with Euro 6-compliant emissions. These cars (mainly EVs) reduce fuel costs and often qualify for exemptions from the daily ULEZ charge (£12.50) and low-emission zones in London.
Comfort
Comfort is essential for both drivers and passengers. PCO drivers have to spend long hours on the road, and they need a car with comfortable seats and smooth handling. A comfortable driving position reduces fatigue and helps you stay focused, making your long-hour shifts more manageable.
Passengers notice comfort too. Cars with enough space for luggage, climate control, and a smooth ride are more likely to get positive ratings and repeat bookings. Features such as adjustable seats, air conditioning, and quiet interiors can make journeys more pleasant, especially for longer trips across the city or between towns.
Read Also: Tired Behind the Wheel? Here’s How to Beat Fatigue and Stay Safe
Reliability
Car breakdowns could cause downtime and lost income. A reliable car helps you avoid breakdowns and complete more rides to improve your daily income.
Ask the hire company to provide you with the service and repair history of the vehicle. A vehicle with a valid MOT certificate, history of fewer repairs, and regular maintenance is usually a safe choice.
Don’t just choose a car that looks good to the eye. Always confirm the car is reliable to do your job without costly interruptions.
With Fleeto, you can rent a reliable vehicle with minimal risk of breakdowns. Every car is thoroughly checked, maintained, and PCO-compliant, allowing you to focus on earning without costly interruptions. When you choose Fleeto, you can drive confidently, knowing your vehicle is reliable and built for long hours of PCO driving.
Drive With Confidence. Hire With Fleeto.
Enjoy maximum comfort, reliability, and safety
Cost of Hire
Cheap doesn’t always mean the best in PCO industry. A car that has a low weekly hire fee but consumes more fuel or breaks down frequently is, in reality, an expensive option.
Your vehicle-related costs (rental + fuel) should be less than your weekly earnings. This helps you manage taxes and daily living expenses without stretching your budget.
Checking the contract length and exit terms is also important. If you are a new driver, a flexible, short-term contract can offer a quick exit or vehicle upgrade in case the current car does not meet your expectations.
Safety Features
Safety is a top priority for PCO drivers because they spend long hours on busy roads. Look for a car that has modern safety features like lane assist, parking sensors, ABS brakes, traction control, and airbags to keep you and your passengers safe.
Stability control, rearview cameras, and advanced braking systems are some other useful features that can lower the risk of accidents, expensive repairs, and insurance claims.
When you choose a PCO car with advanced safety features, you can avoid stress during long shifts and show your passengers that their safety is important.
Read Also: Smart Driving Habits PCO Drivers Should Adopt to Avoid Accidents
Start Earning Today.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a PCO car is more than just make and model. An ideal vehicle is fuel-efficient, reliable, and comfortable for both drivers and passengers.
Do your research on different models and ask experienced drivers for their opinion. Test drive if possible, and never compromise on safety. The right car not only keeps your running costs low. It helps you build a thriving career on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of PCO car can help me save more money?
Driving an EV keeps your running costs low and helps you avoid daily ULEZ charges. So, consider hiring an EV to keep more of your PCO earnings.
What to check when hiring a PCO car?
Fuel efficiency, boot space, and reliability are the most important factors to consider when hiring a PCO car. Low fuel costs, more space, and fewer breakdowns make your shifts more profitable.
Can I drive any car for Uber or Bolt?
Cars without a PHV (Private Hire Vehicle) licence aren’t allowed for PCO use. The TfL has strict standards for PCO cars, and only those that meet TfL’s standards are eligible for ride-hailing platforms like Uber and Bolt.
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Our cars come with advanced safety features to keep you and your passengers safe on every trip. With us, you can drive with confidence, earn without interruptions, and enjoy a smooth hire experience.
