‘London is being left behind’: Taxi manufacturer challenges TfL over stalled MAXiCab decision
- Perry Richardson
- 9 minutes ago
- 2 min read
The managing director of Allied Vehicles has renewed criticism of Transport for London (TfL) over the continued lack of approval for the Cab Direct MAXiCab, claiming the delay is holding back accessible transport, fleet renewal and emissions reductions across the capital.
Peter Facenna, Managing Director of Allied Vehicles, said the company has now spent more than a year engaging with TfL regarding approval of the wheelchair accessible taxi, but drivers are still unable to purchase the vehicle for use as a licensed London taxi.
Facenna said: “London should be leading the world in accessible and sustainable transport. Instead, it’s being left behind.”
He added that the prolonged process has wider consequences beyond the approval of a single model.
“For more than a year, we’ve been engaging with Transport for London on the Cab Direct MAXiCab.
“During that time, London taxi drivers have been unable to buy a new taxi, disabled passengers have been denied greater choice, and opportunities to modernise the fleet and reduce emissions have been missed.”
The comments come as London’s taxi market continues to face a shortage of new purpose-built vehicles. LEVC’s TX has effectively remained the only new vehicle available to licensed taxi drivers in the capital, with the MAXiCab seeking entry into the market as an alternative option.
Facenna argued: “This isn’t about one vehicle. It’s about leadership. A city that prides itself on accessibility, innovation and environmental progress should be moving faster, not standing still.”
He concluded by arguing that approval would deliver wider benefits across the industry and for passengers. “More accessible transport. More choice for drivers. Lower emissions. The benefits are clear.
“The question is simple: does London want to lead, or be left behind?”
The latest comments are likely to add further pressure on TfL to provide clarity on the status of the MAXiCab approval process. The manufacturer has consistently argued that relaxing longstanding rules around the turning circle to introduce another licensed taxi model would increase competition, offer drivers greater purchasing choice and expand the availability of wheelchair accessible transport in the capital.
