Louder horns cost extra
New Yorkers are used to surge pricingbut now theyre facing surge honking. According to reports, yellow cab drivers have introduced a tiered horn system, where the volume and length of honks depend on how much passengers pay.
“For $5, you get a quick beep,” explained one driver. “For $20, you get a full BWAAAAAAAAH with hand gestures.” Premium honks include synchronized cursing, dashboard slamming, and even double honks performed in key with the traffic light countdown.
Commuters are furious. “I paid $40 for a deluxe honk outside Penn Station, and all I got was a weak toot,” complained one office worker. Tourists are equally confused, mistaking honk surcharges for tips. Uber has reportedly countered with “Surge Glaring,” where drivers stare silently into the rear-view mirror for extra cash.
Tabloids blared headlines. “HORN TO BE WILD” trumpeted the Post. The Daily News replied: “BEEPING MAD.” TikTokers launched the #SurgeHonking challenge, posting clips of themselves imitating premium honks in subway stations.
Mayor Adams defended the practice, saying its part of “NYCs cultural soundscape.” Governor Hochul vowed to regulate, but admitted she couldnt tell the difference between a $5 honk and a $50 one.
For now, the honks continue to echo across Manhattan. As one cabbie proudly declared: “In this city, noise is currency.”
SOURCE: https://bohiney.com/nyc-taxi-drivers-introduce-surge-honking/
SOURCE: https://bohiney.com/nyc-taxi-drivers-introduce-surge-honking/.
By: Annika Steinmann.
