Next-gen London Taxi revealed!

On the surface, taxis are merely a mode of transportation. However, many taxis are symbolic of the places they operate in. Few taxis can claim to be the icon that is the London Taxi and the good old black retro cab has just been revealed in its latest generation, and it's a hybrid!

Carrying forward the legacy of the Hackney Carriage, the prototype was revealed at a special event by Chinese automaker Geely, who currently owns the London Taxi Company (LTC). Labelled the TX5, the car drops diesel power in favour of a greener electric drivetrain with an internal combustion engine acting as the range extender. The car will feature a front engine - rear drive layout. The car is expected to get a lightweight aluminium frame, composite body panels, rear hinged passenger doors, a panoramic glass roof, enough room in the cabin for 6 passengers and 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating.

The new London Taxi will hit the streets in 2017 with production taking place at the LTC's plant in Warwickshire. With government subsidies for low emission vehicles, the TX5 is expected to cost around the same as the current car, even though it will employ more advanced technologies.

Images via: AutoExpress