UK Electric Taxis: China-owned LEVC turns London's black cabs green

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London's iconic black cab has gone green, with a little help from the Chinese. Brand-new electric taxis have been developed in the UK by the newly-rebranded London Electric Vehicle Company, which is owned by Chinese car giant Geely. CGTN's Kate Parkinson reports from London.

The London black cab is one of the most recognizable taxis in the world. But this brand new electric model has little in common with its diesel powered predecessor. The plug-in hybrid has been developed in the UK by the London Electric Vehicle Company, with substantial investment from its Chinese owners.

CHRIS GUBBEY, CEO LONDON EV COMPANY "When Chairman Li Shufu bought London Taxi Company, as it was then, he already had the vision of where he wanted us to take the vehicle and what the new vehicle needed to be like. His whole focus is very strongly on new energy vehicles."

The new taxi can travel for 125 kilometers on a single battery charge and for longer journeys is fitted with a gasoline engine which extends its range to nearly 650 kilometers. It's already proving a hit with London cabbies. Patrick's been driving a taxi for 20 years and says he definitely prefers this to his old diesel model.

PATRICK FOLLEN LONDON TAXI DRIVER "1000 times better, I cannot stress how much more comfortable this is to use. For taxi drivers and passengers, this is the ultimate driving machine."

KATE PARKINSON LONDON It's pretty comfortable here in the back as well. Very spacious, room for six people to sit very comfortably. The panoramic sunroof is a really nice touch and there is also somewhere to charge your phone which is always a very popular feature these days.

But this is not just about comfort. Pollution is a big issue in many major cities and the London EV company hopes its new cab can help tackle air problems around the world. London's iconic black cab has gone green, and could soon be going global. Kate Parkinson, CGTN, London.