As Nissan prepares to launch a new London taxi, we look back at the history of the Hackney carriage.
Nissan Motor Co has unveiled the Taxi for London, having adapted an existing van to look more like the city's traditional black cabs. Nissan will compete against the dominant manufacturer, London Taxi Co, which operated as Manganese Bronze until it was saved last year by Chinese carmaker Geely.
Nissan
The first Hackney carriage licences were issued for horse-drawn carriages in 1662. The hansom cab was patented in 1834 and was widely used until the introduction of motorised cabs in the early 20th century.
© TfL from the London Transport Museum collection
Two early Rational motor taxis (built by Heatly-Gresham Engineering) parked outside the Savoy Theatre in The Strand. Registration numbers on taxis show the photo was taken after 1904. The Rational, built by Heatly-Gresham Engineering of Letchworth, was the first taxi to afford some protection to the driver and to be fitted with doors.
© TfL from the London Transport Museum collection
A Knightsbridge motor taxi rank in 1907 with vehicles believed to be of Renault and/or Unic manufacture.
© TfL from the London Transport Museum collection
Taxis outside Paddington Underground station in Praed Street in 1932.
© TfL from the London Transport Museum collection
The Austin London Taxicab, introduced in 1930, used a modified Austin Heavy 12/4 chassis.
Wiki Commons
An Austin LL (Low-Loader) taxicab, which was introduced in 1934. The rear portion of its roof could be folded down.
© TfL from the London Transport Museum collection
The Austin FX3 was introduced in 1949.
Wiki commons
Perhaps the most iconic London black cab, the Austin FX4, was produced between 1958 and 1997.
© TfL from the London Transport Museum collection
The popular FX4 was replaced in 1997 by the TX1, made by London Taxis International.
Wiki Commons
The LTI TXII was produced between 2002 and 2006.
Wiki Commons
In 2006, LTI introduced the TX4. Following extensive problems including steering faults and engine fires, the company went into administration and was rescued by China's Geely Motors.
Wiki Commons
Nissan's new Taxi for London should be on the streets by the end of the year.
Nissan
Nissan's new Taxi for London should be on the streets by the end of the year.
Nissan
