London taxis are an iconic symbol of the city’s transport history. They are known for their unique design and distinct black color, which has made them a recognizable sight on the streets of London for over a century.
But who made these famous taxis? Let’s take a closer look.
The Beginning of the London Taxi
The first London taxi was introduced in 1903 by the London General Omnibus Company, which later became known as the London Transport Board. The design was based on a horse-drawn carriage and was called the FX3. It had a large passenger compartment that could carry up to six people and was powered by a petrol engine.
The Birth of the Black Cab
The iconic black color of the London taxi came about in 1907 when it was decided that all taxis should be painted black to make them more visible at night. This decision was made after a study showed that black was the most visible color at night.
The Role of Carbodies
Carbodies is the company responsible for manufacturing most of the classic black cabs that we see on the streets today. The company was founded in 1919 and began producing taxi bodies in 1928. The first Carbodies taxi was called the Landaulette and had a top speed of just 45 mph.
Changes to Design
Over the years, there have been several changes to the design of London taxis. In 1948, Carbodies introduced the FX4, which had a more modern look and featured an improved suspension system and larger windows for better visibility.
In 1989, LTI (London Taxis International) took over production of London taxis from Carbodies and introduced several new models including the TX1, TXII, and TX4. These models featured updated designs with improved safety features and more environmentally friendly engines.
The Future of London Taxis
In recent years, there have been several new companies entering the London taxi market with electric and hybrid models. However, the classic black cab is still a popular choice among both locals and tourists.
In 2017, a new version of the classic black cab was introduced by the London Electric Vehicle Company (LEVC). The TX eCity model is an electric hybrid that can travel up to 80 miles on a single charge and has a range-extending petrol engine.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the London taxi has a rich history dating back over a century. Carbodies played a major role in manufacturing these iconic vehicles for many decades before LTI took over production. With new companies entering the market, it will be interesting to see what changes lie ahead for this beloved mode of transport in London.