Addison Lee is stepping up its efforts to hire 1,000 new passenger car drivers, supporting an expected rise in demand for private hire services and including electric vehicles.

From November 2021, Addison Lee has been deploying 200 EVs to its fleet every month, starting with the Volkswagen ID.4

Plan B Covid restrictions lift on 27 January, and the private hire and black taxi giant is growing its fleet to meet needs.

This includes increased numbers of electric vehicles; the business has said its fleet will go fully electric by 2023.

Its new year hiring push is being backed by a benefits package said to be industry-leading and including guaranteed earnings of £5,000 a month, holiday pay and pension, and the launch of AL Rewards – a suite of new benefits said to be unique and ranging from sick pay to physio support and mental health counselling.

With its first electric vehicles already operating on its fleet, Addison Lee will also offer all drivers access to an electric vehicle by 2023 as it transitions to a fully electric fleet. From November 2021, Addison Lee has been deploying 200 EVs to its fleet every month, starting with the Volkswagen ID.4.

Drivers will also be offered support with the shift to electric, including exclusive access to nearby off-street EV charging points through Addison Lee’s partnership with JustPark.

Addison Lee’s CEO, Liam Griffin, commented: “As Plan B Covid restrictions ease and demand rises, Addison Lee’s new driver offer ensures the best deal in the market for existing partner drivers and new recruits, with the best earning opportunities, a range of benefits and access to state-of-the-art vehicles. This enhanced package ensures that we will be supporting our existing partner drivers, while growing our fleet to help meet rising demand for safe travel in London.”