Private‑hire drivers plan to alternate switching off Uber and Bolt apps during morning peak hours between 19 and 24 January in a protest organised by the Somos TVDE civic movement. Organisers say drivers will still be free to work but will turn off one platform at a time to disrupt supply and press for clearer regulation; they accuse the platforms of operating like sector employers. Commuters and those booking rides in peak mornings next week should expect possible delays or reduced availability.
TVDE drivers plan app‑switch action during morning peaks
Friday, 16 January 2026AI summary
Context & Explainers
TVDE refers to app‑based private‑hire ride services; the acronym stands for Transporte em Veículos Descaracterizados a partir de Plataforma Eletrónica and covers drivers working for platforms like Uber and Bolt. Drivers are using temporary app shutdowns as a protest over what they say is inadequate regulation and working conditions, so commuters who rely on ride‑hailing during peak hours should expect possible service disruptions next week.
Somos TVDE (We Are TVDE) is a civic movement and drivers’ organisation representing TVDE drivers that organises collective actions and campaigns for stronger regulation, better pay and working conditions. It is coordinating the alternating shutdowns of Uber and Bolt apps in morning peak hours, so those using app‑based taxis should be aware of potential reduced availability and plan alternatives.
Sources (3)
- TVDE drivers to protest next week and anticipate disruptions to Uber and BoltECO · 4:36pm, 16 Jan 2026
- TVDE drivers to protest next week; disruptions expected to Uber and Bolt tripsCorreio da Manhã · 5:08pm, 16 Jan 2026
- Private-hire (TVDE) drivers to protest against Uber and Bolt next weekPúblico · 5:07pm, 16 Jan 2026
