Could London Set Up a Nonprofit, Cooperative Alternative to Uber?

London recently dealt another blow to Uber’s plans to take over the world. Saying the ride-hailing giant had failed to abide by public safety rules governing private cab companies, regulators in the U.K. capital said the company would lose its “license to operate” at the end of September.

The decision hit hard for 40,000 fare-earning Uber drivers and its 3.5 million customers, many of whom undeniably like the service. Uber’s cars fill a void in London because its iconic black cabs are expensive (compared to New York’s yellow cabs, particularly) and are far from ubiquitous outside central areas. Already more than 800,000 people have signed a petition asking Transport for London (TfL), the regulator, to overturn the decision (we’re assuming these people are bonafide residents of Chiswick and Islington and not fictitious astroturfers).

But, instead of relying on Uber and other venture capital-backed startups, London has another option, if it wants it. It could set up–or encourage–a nonprofit ride service like the one started by tech entrepreneurs in Austin.RideAustin, now 15 months old, has proved that Uber’s proposition isn’t unique and that cities needn’t be cowed into accepting the writ of outside corporations.