Mercedes Vito taxis must meet turning circle rule despite KPM closure, says Mayor of London
- Perry Richardson
- Sep 18
- 2 min read
The Mayor of London has confirmed that the closure of KPM Automotive will not lead to any change in licensing requirements for Mercedes Vito taxis.
KPM, long seen as a key provider for repairs to the Vito’s unique turning circle mechanism, is due to cease trading. The concern was raised at a Mayor’s Question Time session by Neil Garratt of the City Hall Conservatives, who asked whether Vito taxis that can no longer have their turning circle fixed would still be allowed to operate.
In response, the Mayor confirmed that TfL does not rely solely on KPM for repairs and that other garages are available with the necessary expertise.
However, TfL remains firm on enforcing the Conditions of Fitness, which include the requirement for all licensed taxis to achieve a specified turning circle. The rule is in place to ensure black cabs can make tight manoeuvres, especially U-turns in London’s narrower streets.
Vehicles failing to meet this condition, including any with a non-functioning turning mechanism, will not be licensed even if they remain otherwise roadworthy.
This decision could pose challenges for some fleet owners and drivers relying on the ageing Vito taxis, particularly as replacement parts become harder to obtain and other garages face capacity or knowledge limitations.
Garratt asked the Mayor via a written question: “Given that KPM Automotive – which I understand is the only known repairer of the Mercedes Vito’s tight turning circle – is to cease trading, will Transport for London continue to licence Mercedes Vito taxis that remain otherwise roadworthy and pass all relevant safety checks, but whose tight turning circle mechanism is no longer functioning and cannot be repaired?”
Sadiq Khan replied: “Repairs to the Mercedes Vito taxis, that enable it to meet the turning circle requirement, are carried out by a number of suitably qualified garages. The continued roadworthiness and serviceability of these vehicles is not dependent on one garage.
“Transport for London remains committed to upholding the Conditions of Fitness, which include the requirement for all licensed taxis to meet the specified turning circle. This requirement ensures that taxis can safely and efficiently navigate London’s streets and provide consistent service to passengers.
“Accordingly, Mercedes Vito taxis will continue to be licensed provided they meet all relevant safety checks and comply with the Conditions of Fitness – including the turning circle specification. Vehicles that fail to meet these standards will not be eligible for licensing.”
