Why it's so hard to hail a taxi in China?

The payment interface of Didi’s app reminds that the probability of getting a taxi would be 85.6% if a tip of eight yuan, or about $1.2, is paid. [Photo/Didi Chuxing]

Tan said drivers are fully-aware that their customers will have to pay tips to get through to drivers. As such, they're waiting out the customers.

How to deal with the problem?

Researcher Yuan Gangming says the market should be allowed to sort the problem out for itself.

If Didi Chuxing keeps offering expensive services with bad quality, consumers will begin turning to other options, including road-side hailing.

However, Cui Zheng, professor with Beijing Technology and Business University, says some form of government intervention may be needed.

Cui is recommending the government tighten supervision and management of Didi Chuxing in case the company exerts monopolistic behavior on the market.

"Do Didi's drivers pay taxes? Does Didi educate or assess the drivers on a regular basis like the traditional taxi runner does? These all need consideration and regulations," said Cui.

As for the company, Cui said as a giant operation, Didi should also have a social responsibility to ensure quality services for its customers.