One of the most iconic taxi services globally can be found in London. The Hackney carriage, or the black cab as it is called locally, is synonymous with the city. A wide variety of taxi models has been employed in London over the years. Each of them has contributed significantly to the development of the city’s transport system. This article will examine the history of taxicabs in London, from the early horse-drawn carriages to the present-day electric taxis.
Early Days: The Horse-Drawn Carriages
Before motor taxis, Londoners used horse-drawn carriages. They were referred to as “Hackney Carriages,” a term still applied today. The first Hackney carriage license was granted in 1662, and London’s taxi service is one of the world’s oldest. The carriages were costly, and only the rich could afford to rent them. Nevertheless, they became more widespread as the city expanded.
The Arrival of Motor Taxis
The first motor taxis in London emerged in 1903. They were called “Bersey electric cabs,” named after their creator, Walter Bersey. Although they were electric, they were not successful because their batteries were short-lived. Petrol taxis soon replaced them.
The Iconic Austin FX3 (1948–1958)
Among the best-known early taxi designs was the Austin FX3, launched in 1948. This taxi featured a large passenger compartment and a distinct driver’s cabin. It became familiar on the streets of London. The FX3 was powered by a diesel engine, making it more economical to run. It featured an open luggage space beside the driver, a design element still used in contemporary London cabs.
The Classic Austin FX4 (1958–1997)
The Austin FX4 was the longest-running taxi in London’s history. It was launched in 1958 and continued to run for nearly 40 years. The FX4 boasted a spacious interior, excellent driver visibility and a 25-foot turning circle, making it easy to manoeuvre London’s narrow streets. The taxi became synonymous with the city and was famous globally.
The Transition to the LTI Fairway (1989–1997)
The LTI Fairway was launched in 1989 as a new model based on the FX4. It had enhanced qualities, such as improved suspension and an upgraded engine. The Fairway continued to be in favour until the late 1990s when the arrival of a new generation of taxis took its place.
The TX Series: Modern Black Cabs
The TX series is probably the most significant innovation in the history of London taxis. The models have managed to blend tradition with technology:
- TX1 (1997–2002): The model upgraded the LTI Fairway and incorporated improved fuel efficiency, safety features and a more contemporary look.
- TXII (2002–2007): The model advanced the TX1 by adding a cleaner diesel engine to curb pollution.
- TX4 (2007–2017): This version improved fuel efficiency and comfort and it remains one of the most popular models with drivers and passengers alike.
The Electric Revolution: LEVC TX (2017–Present)
Now, London’s black taxis are going green. The LEVC TX (London Electric Vehicle Company TX) entered the market in 2017. The LEVC TX is a plug-in hybrid taxi that uses electricity as well as petrol. It causes significantly less pollution than earlier taxis and has a less noisy engine. The LEVC TX features contemporary amenities such as contactless payment, wheelchair accessibility and a panoramic glass roof for commuters to appreciate London’s view.
Taximeters
A taximeter is, by definition, what distinguishes a “cab” from a “taxicab”, or a “taxi”. Early taximeters were completely mechanical in function and the clock that registered the waiting time had to be wound manually. The clocks used in the taximeters of the 1960s and 1970s were referred to as “electromechanical”, with a mechanical drive for measuring distance and an electric clock for the time factor. London Cabs’ taximeters are now totally electronic. Like the previous kinds, they estimate the fare chargeable by an intermixing of time and distance. While the cab travels at speeds higher than 10mph, the fare is worked out from the distance travelled. At a speed of below 10mph, the fare is shown on a timed basis.
Why “Black” Cabs?
The term “black cab” was first used as a slang term within the London minicab industry, whose members had taken the term “cab” (“cab” was the official term the PCO had used until 2000 for the taxicabs they licensed).
In contrast to the rules of some British provincial taxi licensing bodies, the Conditions of Fitness never required that a London cab be a certain colour. Prewar cabs were coach-built and painted in a wide range of colours. After the Second World War, they were painted because it was a cheap colour to supply. People can buy different colours at extra cost, that’s why, it become the standard colour.
Conclusion
The history of London’s taxicabs demonstrates the development of the city over time. From horse-drawn carriages to electric cabs, each model has contributed to making travel more effective. The black cab is still an iconic representation of London, and with improved technology, the future of taxis in the city also appears brighter. With new technologies and an emphasis on sustainability, London’s taxis will remain a vital component of the city’s transport network for many years to come.
FAQs
1. What was the Bay of Hay rule?
There were many stories about the London cab and its cabmen. The rule was that there was no law for motor cabmen to carry a bale of hay. The horse cabmen were also not allowed to carry a bay of hay, although it was used to carry goods.
2. Why do London cabs have a short turning circle?
London cabs circle to make turns on narrow streets and make U-turns comfortably with a short turning
3. When did the taxi service start in London?
The taxi service in London started in 1662 with the horse-drawn Hackney carriages. In 1880 there were two types of horse-drawn Hackney carriages, two-wheelers for carrying people and four-wheelers for carrying goods.
