Next-gen London Taxi unveiled, may head to India

The iconic London Taxi company has unveiled the next generation of the London Taxi in the UK. The prototype is called the TX5. London Taxi Company has been bought out by Geely, a Chinese automobile manufacturer, who also own Volvo Cars.

                    Rows of London Taxi prototypes, the TX 5.



Geely claim that the new prototype has been developed from scratch, however some styling cues were taken from the iconic London cab which is evident when one looks at the car. Despite it being instantly recognizable as a close cousin to the London cab, the new taxi has been designed with features that fit the requirement of modern travelers and comply with government restrictions. The TX5 has been designed from the ground up.

Earlier, London Cabs were not only iconic but they were known for being cramped. Now the core feature of the design was to improve the comfort level for the drivers and passengers. Rear doors are hinged at the back like a Rolls Royce Wraith or Phantom. These are called Suicide doors and make it easier for the passengers to get in and out of the cars easily.

Moreover, there is space for a forward facing wheelchair making it easier for senior citizens and differently-abled people. Additional features of the prototype include a panoramic glass roof, Wi-Fi internet capability and charging points for drivers and passengers. The TX5 is a six seater which is an upgrade from the standard taxi. 

As reported by IndianCarsandBikes, the Tx5 is, in essence, a hybrid vehicle powered by an electric motor.  The batteries are also equipped by a range extender to reduce range anxiety and improve reliability.

Moreover, the TX5 is a zero emissions vehicle, thereby complying to London laws where all taxis have to be zero-emission vehicles by 2018. The TX5 comes with a four cylinder petrol engine that acts as a range extender.

The TX5 prototype taxi was unveiled in the presence of the Duke of Cambridge, Duchess of Cambridge and the Chinese President Xi Jinping, who is on a four-day visit to the UK. The taxi will go on sale at the end of 2017 and will be exported to the international market by 2018. 

Source : India today , 22nd Oct 2015