Even when I briefly worked in London in the 90s there was no point having the car. I am truly puzzled so many locals bothered. Uber or cab should only need to be occasional - there is great, albeit crowded public transport.

It was entirely counter-productive, slower than cycling, expensive and just about zero chance of convenient parking. After one or two attempts, I left it at home and took the train down each week.

I take public transport or cycle to work every day as I work in the City and it's faster and more convenient. People should be inspired to take public transport instead of driving because it's better and faster to do so, not restricted by levying giant taxes and blocking roads.

These are comparative measures - you can make public transit better and faster by making driving expensive and worse, even if public transit doesn't improve.

For most people in cities using ride-share/taxi is much cheaper than owning car. What I pay for rides a month is just a monthly parking pass.

Or, you know. Catch the bus. Or the tram, or the train, or the ferry. Or walk. Or run. Or ride. Or get on a scooter. Of roller blade. Or use a skateboard.