Production of London black cabs has restarted, six months after the London Taxi Company was rescued by Chinese car company Geely.
LTC claims it now has capacity to produce 50 vehicles per week, with revisions to the newly built cars making them the ‘most sophisticated’ taxis the firm has ever built.
Speaking as production restarted, Geely Group chief Li Shufu said: “Today is a milestone in the history of the London Taxi Company, but it marks just the beginning of what we believe will be a strong and prosperous future.
“We are pleased to have created dozens of new jobs, and have already begun work on the planning and design of the next generation of this iconic vehicle. Thanks to the work of everyone here and everyone that has supported us, LTC has an exciting future ahead of it.”
Business secretary Vince Cable commented: “After a period of worry and uncertainty for the workforce, Geely Group’s investment has secured the future of the iconic black cabs company, protecting highly skilled jobs in the Midlands and ensuring that London cabs continue to be made here in Britain.
“It is also a clear demonstration of the success of the British car industry, which has stayed strong even during tough economic times.”
Geely’s five year, £150m investment promises to spur development of the next generation of London taxi, which promise improved efficiency and lower environmental impact.
Image: Flickr
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