You're considering private hire chauffeurs in London? The first decision you'll have to make is choosing the best vehicle, and most importantly, a vehicle that satisfies those Public Carriage Office (PCO) standards. When you're trying to purchase a car or look into PCO car rental, selecting a low-cost, reliable, secure, and compliant vehicle is essential to get to the right place.

In this article we'll review several of the best affordable cars that are PCO-ready that you can lease or buy now, along with the advantages and disadvantages of each one to aid you in making the best choice for your journey.

What Is a PCO-Ready Car?

A PCO-ready vehicle is a car that has been licensed and meets safety standards imposed by Transport for London (TfL) for private hire use. This includes:

• A person who is less than 10 years of age

• The meeting of Euro 6 emissions standards (or ULEZ in compliance)

• With 4 doors and at least 4 seats for passengers

• Possessing valid private hire insurance and MOT

• The TfL vehicle inspection

If you choose the PCO car hire service or purchasing a PCO-approved car will ensure you're legal to drive on platforms such as Uber, Bolt, or FreeNow.

Affordable PCO-Ready Cars to Consider

Here are a few fuel-efficient, affordable and well-loved designs for private hire London chauffeurs:

1. Toyota Prius (Hybrid)

• Fuel Efficiency: Excellent (50-60 MPG)

• ULEZ Compliant: Yes

• Why it's awesome: Reliable, spacious and popular with Uber drivers.

• Available as: New or used purchase, or through PCO car rental.

2. Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid

• Fuel Efficiency: Up to 60 MPG

• ULEZ Compliant: Yes

• Why it's great: Modern technology with a smooth and quiet drive and less emissions.

• is available as: Often included in PCO hire that is electric or hybrid fleets.

3. Kia Niro (Hybrid)

• Fuel Efficiency: Around 50-55 MPG

• ULEZ Compliant: Yes

• Why It's Awesome: SUV style, plenty of room and extremely efficient.

• Available for hire or purchase. Hire or buy.

4. Skoda Octavia

• Fuel Efficiency: 45-50 MPG

• ULEZ Compatible: Most newer models

• Why It's Awesome: Large boot space and is reliable, a comfortable fit for long shifts.

• Available as: Great value second-hand or via hire.

5. Toyota Corolla Hybrid

• Efficiency of Fuel: Excellent hybrid economy

• ULEZ Compliant: Yes

• What's it's about: Newer, tech-loaded and extremely efficient.

• Available as: PCO car hire, or new purchase.

PCO Car Hire vs. buying: What's more affordable?

PCO Car Hire Advantages

• Low cost of initial investment: No need to spend a lot of money to start.

• Inclusion packages: Insurance, maintenance MOT, TfL, and insurance licensing are typically included.

• The flexibility: Rent weekly or monthly. Ideal for part-time and trial drivers.

• There is no depreciation. Take the vehicle back after the time you're finished.

Buying a PCO Car Advantages

• Ownership: Create equity, and create long-term value.

• No rental costs: Better for full-time drivers who have a steady income.

• Additional control You can customize the automobile and set your own schedule.

If you're only starting out or want to stay clear of massive initial expenses, PCO car hire is typically the more secure and more flexible choice.

Where to Find Affordable PCO-Ready Cars

PCO Car Hire Companies in London

Find rental companies that offer:

• Weekly hire starts at PS150 to PS250.

• vehicles that comply with ULEZ

• MOT, insurance, servicing and licensing are included.

Buying Options

• Used car dealerships that have PCO-compliant listings

• Platforms online (AutoTrader, Gumtree, Motors.co.uk)

• Straight from the PCO rental providers providing "rent-to-buy" deals

Consider Electric or Hybrid PCO Car Hire

With the rising cost of fuel in London and the ULEZ expansion, a lot of drivers are turning to hybrid or electric PCO car rentals. They are not only cheaper to operate, but a lot of rental companies provide EVs that have charging and congestion charge charges.

Popular models include:

• Nissan Leaf

• Hyundai Ioniq Electric

• MG5 EV

• Tesla Model 3 (premium hire)

Final Thoughts

If you opt to buy or rent one, selecting a budget-friendly PCO-ready vehicle will be the initial step towards success in London's private hire. If you're just beginning, PCO car hire provides the lowest risk, all-in-one option - without the burden of maintenance or a large initial investment.

Are you struggling to find the perfect vehicle? Let us help you find the most competitive PCO car rental offers available today.