London's black cabs to go green with a little help from China

New hybrid black cab will hit London roads in 2017, a year before all taxis are required to be capable of 'zero emissions' motoring, reports Business Green

London's iconic black cabs have received a green makeover with the launch of the latest battery-powered TX5 model, unveiled yesterday during Chinese premier Xi Jinping's state visit to the capital.

The new London taxi, which will be available from 2017, will be made with Chinese electric vehicle technology. It was designed by the London Taxi Company, which is owned by Chinese car manufacturer Geely. The TX5 will be manufactured at a new 300m plant outside Coventry - the UK's first new auto plant in a decade.