The brand new Metrocab is a market first, bringing the first zero-emissions taxi to London.
Licensed by Transport for London and developed by Frazer-Nash Research and Ecotive, it is operating on a trial basis as a London Hackney Carriage, with the first few already carrying fare-paying customers.
The purpose-built all-new Range Extended Electric Metrocab taxi features the latest technology for comfort, performance and safety, providing unrivalled efficiency and economy.
It boasts significantly reduced daily operation and maintenance costs, while it also brings a number of benefits for passengers with its full disabled accessibility, panoramic roof for views of the city, increased luggage space and unrivalled comfort for up to seven passengers.
Powered by two electric motors, the vehicle also carries a 1-litre petrol engine coupled with a generator to recharge the battery pack. This can take as little as ten minutes when the car is in action, while charging can also take place at any mains electric outlet providing even lower fuel consumption. This unique offering delivers ultra-low emissions and a zero emissions mode, improved air quality, reduced noise pollution, and economic benefits including tax incentives and grants, all of which will be highly beneficial in the capital.
The Metrocab is capable of achieving 98 mpg on the ECE101 Cycle, making it more than three times more efficient than current London taxis. It also boasts 75 per cent less CO2 than comparable current cabs in the capital.
Speaking about the launch, Metrocab chairman Sir Charles Masefield said: "The Metrocab has received numerous accolades and plaudits across the board in recent months, but now it is official – it is the first licensed range extended electric cab for London, and indeed the first in the world."
The Metrocab has also been shortlisted for the London Transport Awards 2015, in the Taxi & Private Hire Innovator of the Year category.