Indeed. Perhaps it would be difficult to replicate what Uber did in SF and other US cities without breaking regulations - but in London, their model is perfectly replicable, as evidenced by the fact that they were originally given a license by TfL.
But here's an even better model:
1. Do a good job
2. Consumers use your service & rely on you
3. Wait for the government to try to shut you down
4. Consumers will back you
5. Government backs down & lets you do what you want
