London air quality measures 'could affect black cabs'

London's traditional taxis may have to undergo extensive modifications to comply with new air quality rules in the capital.

According to the Evening Standard, mayor of London Boris Johnson is considering the introduction of a new low emission zone that could apply to the city's black cabs, as well as cars and vans.

Although the scheme could take several years to come into effect, it would force taxis in central London to cut their emissions significantly or face being taken off the road.

London Assembly member Darren Johnson recently called for the mayor to ensure any low emission zone includes black cabs.

He told the newspaper that such a move would help to address the "problem of London's dreadful air quality".

"A heavy fine to deter the most polluting black cabs and lorries from central London is an essential step," Mr Johnson added.

London is the city with the worst air pollution levels in the UK. In June this year, the European Commission issued Britain with a final warning over the capital's air quality standards.

Posted by Joseph Hutton