From 2018 all new London taxis will be required to run with zero emissions, under plans set out by the London Mayor, Boris Johnson.
New cabs will be expected to run in zero emissions mode in parts of the city where air pollution is especially bad.
Transport for London (TfL) unveiled the plans at a special 'New Taxis for London' event.
At the event, five cab makers revealed details of the taxis they will be bringing to market – some of which will be operating by 2015.
Here are the five new London black cabs:
- Frazer-Nash: Metrocab. Surrey-based Ecotive co-developed the Metrocab which features a range increasing electric powertrain. In terms of styling, some say it looks like the Trebor Softmint man's preferred transport mode, while others laud its ‘black cab’ styling cues.
- Nissan: NV200. A fully-electric version will arrive later in 2014, but at present only a petrol engine van version is available.
- Karzan: Concept V1. This Turkish firm makes buses in its core operation, but has a super modern looking taxi lined up for London.
- Mercedes-Benz UK: updated Vito model. The new Vito will feature zero emissions technology.
- The London Taxi Company: Updated TX. The new model will feature a lighter body and a range-extending powertrain.
Commenting on the new taxis, Boris Johnson, Mayor of London, said: "As part of my mission to improve our air quality and drive innovation, I'm making a firm pledge to Londoners that from 2018 all taxis presented for licensing should be zero emission capable.
"The cleaner, greener vehicles I've seen today are proof that the evolution of the great London cab is well and truly underway."
What do you think of the new London cab designs? Perhaps you’re one of our breakdown cover customers who also has a London cab. Do these designs depart too much from the classic London black taxi, or are they suitably forward-looking? Are cost savings number one? As ever, please leave your thoughts below.
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