London Cab 2.0 - Fuel Cell London Taxi Unveiled

Earlier this month, London announced that it aims to become the most EV-friendly city in the world, releasing a detailed action plan. England’s capital is now closer to achieving the aforementioned goal, as another eco motoring initiative has been launched in the city. A prototype Fuel Cell Hybrid London Taxi has been presented today at the City Hall.

The vehicle, which is the result of the collaboration between multiple companies, including Lotus Engineering, is the first step in a plan to turn London’s taxis into a zero emissions vehicles by 2020. A fleet of fuel cell black cabs is expected to enter service in the city by 2012.

The fuel cell London Cab prototype can reach a top speed of 80 mph (130 km/h), while offering a driving range of 250 miles (400 km) per charge. The vehicle also promises to offer a short charging time, that will not affect the vehicle's workhorse status.

The project’s representatives said that the vehicle’s development is only the first stage of the process that will see it being introduced on London’s roads. From now on, the developers have to secure additional funding, convince drivers that the new type of vehicle is suitable for their work, as well as establish a charging station network that would allow the vehicles to operate in proper conditions.

What can we say... It’s interesting to see how London will see its roads being populated by the “London Taxi 2.0”, while the “old” London taxi (we are talking about the LTI TX4) has immigrated to various Eastern European countries and has even started being produced in China, by Geely.