Addison Lee installs safety screens across its MPV fleet

The new safety screens have been approved by TfL. Credit: Addison Lee

Addison Lee has introduced TfL-approved safety screens across 100 per cent of its Ford Galaxy and VW Sharan fleet, making it the only private hire vehicle operator in London to offer this protection to passengers and drivers in their vehicles. 

The screens have undergone comprehensive testing to meet all Transport for London’s private hire regulations and are being installed by qualified technicians, according to Addison Lee.

Currently, TfL has only approved screens for Ford and Toyota models. The authority has also partnered with Millbrook and HORIBA MIRA, two automotive testing facilities, to offer “bespoke assessment for the installation of partition screens in licensed PHVs”.

The introduction of screens across the entire MPV fleet is the most recent measure taken by Addison Lee as part of its Safer Journey Initiative. This has also seen the company provide drivers with personal protective equipment, undertaking regular electrostatic disinfection of vehicles and facilitating social distancing using the rear seats of its seven-seater vehicles. 

Liam Griffin, CEO of Addison Lee, said: “Right from the start of the pandemic, Addison Lee has led the industry in safety and hygiene and prioritised the health of drivers and passengers. We have invested hundreds of thousands of pounds to design, test, manufacture and install safety screens across our entire Ford Galaxy and VW Sharan fleet. No other PHV provider can offer their passengers or drivers such a level of protection.”

“Over the summer the industry has been plagued by negative stories about safety, with some companies allowing unlicensed and uninsured journeys to take place. Passenger and driver safety are core to our business, and we are proud to introduce another industry leading safety initiative.”