WHAT’S HAPPENING IN 2023? Taxi Vito windows that OPEN and age extending retrofits could happen soon

Vito taxi windows that open and age limit extending retrofits could be on the cards in 2023, says London taxi rep.

It is hoped that the cleaner retrofit technology could help extend the age limits of black cabs and aid current vehicle shortages if the Vito, and a further LTI TX4, option passes testing and are approved.

The Licensed Taxi Drivers’ Association (LTDA) also hinted that an option to open windows in the Mercedes-Benz Vito taxis could be given the green light in the New Year.

Aside from buying a new Zero-Emission Capable (ZEC) taxi, retrofitting existing cabs to meet Euro 6 compliance standards is seen as one way to eliminate daily charges in some cities and future proofing a cabbies main asset. Using a fully approved retrofit conversion will not only save money on fees, but it will also ensure that your taxi is less harmful to the environment which carries long-term benefits for everybody.

Steve McNamara, LTDA General Secretary, said in TAXI Newspaper: “Looking ahead to next year, there is the dark cloud of recession being constantly talked about in the media, but in reality, we have yet to see any sign of it, and hopefully we won’t.

"As you can read elsewhere in this issue, the taxi fleet is beginning to recover numbers.

“I am also hopeful that there will be some good news in the New Year on TfL’s approval of Euro V to Euro VI conversions for both Vito’s and TX4s, which would give these vehicles back their 15-year age limit. This has been a massive uphill battle, and I have been working with the conversion company HJS, to get this over the line. Fingers crossed that we are nearly there.

“There may also be an update on a conversion to allow opening windows in Vito taxis, something that many Vito owners, and customers, have been asking for, almost since the Vito was launched. Again, there may be news very soon.”