Mercedes-Benz has launched a new London taxi in partnership with taxi retailer KPM-UK, to offer the capital’s cabbies an alternative choice of vehicle.

For decades the traditional ‘black cab’ has been the only option, as nothing else met the city’s regulations.

These stipulate, among other things, a turning circle of no more than 25ft.

But the new Vito Taxi has ticked that box thanks to the addition of a steering rear axle.

The new model is based on the Vito Traveliner minibus and built at the Mercedes-Benz van plant in Vitoria, northern Spain.

Standard vehicles are adapted for use as cabs in the Coventry factory of engineering specialist One80, then retailed by London taxi dealer KPM-UK, which has offices in Bethnal Green.

Steve Bridge, Mercedes-Benz UK’s van sales and marketing director, said: “The Vito Taxi is a ground-breaking vehicle, offering London’s cab drivers a genuine
alternative for the first time in many years to the ubiquitous LTI.

“It’s a fantastically versatile taxi, superbly comfortable and fuel-efficient, and boasting a comprehensive array of active and passive safety features.

With the adaptation package designed in conjunction with KPM-UK and One80, the Vito Taxi is ideally suited to the role.”