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More than 100 TX4 taxis already upgraded as HJS confirms approved Euro 6 retrofits can continue beyond TfL's proposed deadline
London black cab owners considering a Euro 6 emissions upgrade for their TX4 taxis have been reassured that existing approved retrofit systems will remain available beyond March 2027, following confusion surrounding a Transport for London (TfL) consultation.
HJS Emission Technology has moved to clarify after concerns emerged among taxi drivers that proposed changes to TfL’s emissions approval arrangements could prevent them from upgrading Euro 5 TX4 vehicles after the proposed deadline.
Under the consultation proposals, TfL intends to stop accepting applications for new exhaust abatement systems and alternative fuel conversion systems from 1 March 2027.
However, the proposed restriction relates to applications for new retrofit system approvals rather than the continued installation of technologies that have already received authorisation.
TfL's consultation documentation states: “Existing system approvals will remain valid and available to vehicle owners.”
According to HJS, this means its existing Euro 5 to Euro 6 TX4 conversion system would remain available to eligible taxi owners after the proposed March 2027 deadline.
The company stressed that there is no proposed cut-off date for installing its already approved retrofit technology, meaning drivers do not need to rush to complete an upgrade before March 2027 solely because of the consultation.
The detail could prove important for owners of older diesel black cabs who are assessing whether to invest in emissions upgrades or purchase a replacement vehicle.
The HJS retrofit system allows eligible Euro 5 TX4 taxis to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, potentially enabling them to remain licensed for up to 15 years, subject to TfL's applicable vehicle licensing requirements.
For drivers operating older vehicles, the conversion offers an alternative to the significant capital expenditure associated with replacing a black cab.
HJS said it has already completed more than 100 Euro 5 to Euro 6 TX4 upgrades and remains committed to providing the technology to London's licensed taxi trade.
The company believes the consultation wording surrounding new system approvals has led some drivers to incorrectly conclude that all retrofit installations would cease from March 2027.
