Testing continues for London taxi retrofit option despite green light given in other UK cities

Testing for a London taxi industry Euro 6 retrofit solution continues as the Mayor of London states regulators are STILL testing the system put forward despite it being given the green light in multiple cities across the UK.

Conservative Assembly Member Keith Prince asked the Mayor of London to provide an update on the roll out of Euro 6 retrofitting options for taxi drivers in the capital.

The retrofitted black cab returned to the Millbrook testing centre on 31 May, but was not given the green light to begin its 10,000 mile road test for approval into the London market.

Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London said: “Transport for London (TfL) continues to work with HJS, a private company seeking to convert Euro 5 diesel Mercedes Vito and LTI TX4 taxis to achieve a Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) Euro 6 emissions standard.

“The vehicles need to undertake and pass independent emissions testing to demonstrate the devices’ safety and effectiveness in achieving the Euro 6 standard, prior to and following a durability test which will recreate typical taxi driving.”

The move to retrofit taxis with Euro 6 emissions standards is seen as a key part of London's commitment to reducing air pollution and improving air quality. Retrofitting offers taxi drivers a more cost-effective option compared to purchasing entirely new vehicles.

A spokesperson from HJS added: “HJS are working tirelessly with TfL in order to extend the approval of our system to include TfL plated vehicles. We are still aiming to have the TfL stamp of approval within the next few months.”