Can You Buy a London Taxi?

By Robert Palmer

If you’ve ever been to London, you’ve likely seen its iconic black taxis roaming the streets. These vehicles are not just any ordinary cars – they are specifically designed for use as taxis in the city.

But have you ever wondered if it’s possible to purchase one of these famous taxis for personal use? The answer is yes, but it’s not as straightforward as buying a regular car.

What is a London Taxi?

London taxis, also known as hackney carriages, are a type of vehicle that is licensed to operate as a taxi in London. They are easily recognizable by their distinctive shape – a boxy body with a sloping hood and round headlights.

These vehicles are spacious and can accommodate up to five passengers comfortably. They also have features that make them ideal for use as taxis, such as wheelchair accessibility, a turning circle of just 25ft (7.6m), and an incredibly tight turning radius.

Can You Buy One?

Yes, you can buy a London taxi for personal use. However, there are certain requirements that you need to meet before you can legally drive one on the road.

Firstly, you must obtain a license from Transport for London (TfL) to operate the vehicle. This license is known as The Private Hire Vehicle License (PHVL) and it allows you to use the taxi for private hire purposes only.

Where Can You Buy One?

There are several places where you can buy a used London taxi in the UK. One such place is Cab Direct – they specialize in selling new and used London taxis and have been operating since 1998. Another popular option is Eco City Vehicles – they offer both new and used London Taxis for sale along with finance options.

How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of buying a used London taxi varies depending on the age and condition of the vehicle. On average, you can expect to pay around £10,000-£20,000 ($12,000-$24,000) for a used London taxi. However, if you’re looking to buy a new one, the cost can be significantly higher – up to £55,599 ($70,000).

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is possible to buy a London taxi for personal use.

If you’re interested in buying one of these iconic vehicles, there are several places in the UK where you can purchase a used or new London taxi. Just be prepared to pay a premium price for this piece of British history on wheels!