Black cabs not unique, high court rules, paving way for 'green' taxis

Judge says traditional cabs are 'devoid of inherent distinctive character', in legal row involving new eco-friendly taxi group

A high court judge has ruled that one of London's most famous sights, the black cab, is not that unique after all, concluding that they are "devoid of inherent distinctive character".

Mr Justice Arnold said that the taxis are "merely a variation of the typical shape of a car" and ruled that trademarks exclusively relating to its shape should be deemed invalid.