The London taxi is iconic and symbolic the world over and, along with New York City’s yellow cab, is without doubt one of the most recognisable taxis on the planet.
Purpose built and unique straight off the factory floor, most cabbies who drive one very rarely need to modify the vehicle for day-to-day use. But what would happen if renowned British automotive designer, Afzal Kahn, and his team got hold of one, or even two, and gave them the ultimate luxury makeover? Well, let's show you.
Kahn, who operates out of one of London’s most sort after locations, Chelsea, took on the challenge of turning two London TX4 taxis into one of a kind, no expense spared luxury vehicles. And now we want you to have your say; which taxi comes out on top to be crowned ‘the most desirable London taxi’?
First up is one of only five ‘Last of Line Edition’ cabs commissioned by The London Taxi Company.
Manufactured as part of the final production shift, twenty years since the re-imaged TX1 model first took to the streets; this TX4 represents an enduring piece of British history.
The vehicle shouts ultra-luxury from the exterior, with its Rolls Royce black grape coloured paintwork, coloured coded contrast wheels and slotted front grille. But it's on the inside where Kahn’s exceptional standards of craftsmanship really shine.
Privacy glass keeps those lucky enough to take a ride in it completely hidden from the outside world, whilst relaxing on re-upholstered piano black quilted and perforated Nappa Leather seats with surrounding interior to match.
No expense is spared in the driver cabin, so for those drivers spending hours on shift, you’ll also get that high-end feel of comfort, luxury and importance with a leather trimmed steering wheel, colour coded seat belt and last of the line door sills.
But it's when the passengers look up that they suddenly feel like a star, with a VIP LED roof interior red and blue lighting detail that gives the impression of floating in space.
Although comfort, luxury and style is something we all desire, for many who get behind the wheel of any vehicle, power is one of the top priorities, even if we don’t always want to admit it, and this TX4 doesn’t disappoint.
Fitted with a VM Motori 2499cc four cylinder diesel engine, complete with a power upgrade, as a driver you can be assured you’ll be ahead of cabbies enroute to your favourite rank or café.
Next up into the ring is this one-of-a-kind TX4 collector’s edition. Sporting a two tone Rolls Royce paint exterior and colour-coded wheel trims, this taxi oozes style.
The interior also screams ‘importance’ with its ultra comfortable Camel brown quilted, thick leather seats and piano black instrument surround.
In addition the interior also sports colour-coded seat belts, privacy VIP glass, last of the line door sills, leathered steering wheel and last-of-the-line branding.
But the real show stopper is the VIP roof LED lighting system. Similar to the lighting on Kahn’s first vehicle, the sparkling lights give the impression of pure one-of-a-kind luxury.
On this occasion, Kahn and his team decided to go with a warm LED glow, giving the feeling of floating among diamonds. The taxi has also had the same engine power upgrade as the black grape edition, meaning it's all down to the individual to use their knowledge to find the quickest route to that all important rank or coffee and sandwich stop.
So there you have it, two one-of-a-kind London taxis, modified and upgraded with the focus being on luxury, comfort and sheer style. But which one is your favourite?
Image credits: Kahn Designs (marked) & Martin Nash
