Production of the London Taxi has restarted, six months after the firm was rescued by Geely.
Production of the iconic 'London black cab' begun after “significant” improvements to the London Taxi Company’s facility in Coventry. It has created 65 new jobs.
The firm has a capacity of 50 vehicles a week, and the firm claims revisions made to the taxi make it the most sophisticated cab it has ever produced.
Geely’s five year, £150m investment has underwritten the development of future models and research into the future needs of the London Taxi market. The next-generation of taxis will focus on improving efficiency and environmental impact.
Speaking as production restarted, Geely Group boss Li Shufu said: "Today is a milestone in the history of the London Taxi Company, but it marks just the beginning of what we believe will be a strong and prosperous future.
“We are pleased to have created dozens of new jobs, and have already begun work on the planning and design of the next generation of this iconic vehicle. Thanks to the work of everyone here and everyone that has supported us, LTC has an exciting future ahead of it."
Business secretary Vince Cable said: "After a period of worry and uncertainty for the workforce, Geely Group's investment has secured the future of the iconic black cabs company, protecting highly skilled jobs in the Midlands and ensuring that London cabs continue to be made here in Britain.
“It is also a clear demonstration of the success of the British car industry, which has stayed strong even during tough economic times."
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Another British car company
Another British car company sold overseas.
We are great at making other nations rich and prosperous. Yet our goofy politicians stand there for the photo shoot, looking all smug that they have succeeded.
Ubiquitous, & gets everywhere
That's just Vince Cable who might do something useful and progress to driving one of these in May 2015
Hmm
"...the firm claims revisions made to the taxi make it the most sophisticated cab it has ever produced."
With no disrespect intended to my fellow Midlanders, I'm not convinced that's saying a lot. Even the previous spec TX4 was somewhat agricultural in its engineering. It's good to hear they've kept the company going, but the sooner they get a brand new product going the better quite frankly. A new engine on its own isn't going to cut the mustard.