Your Guide to the Iconic TX4 London Cab

When one thinks of London, certain images immediately spring to mind: Big Ben, red phone booths, and the distinctive black cab. Among these enduring symbols, the TX4 London Cab stands out as a true emblem of the city's transport heritage and commitment to accessibility. Far more than just a means of getting from A to B, the TX4 represents a blend of tradition, robust engineering, and forward-thinking design, particularly in its unparalleled accessibility features. This article delves into what makes the TX4 such a vital part of London's fabric, from its unique characteristics to the practicalities of riding and maintaining one.

The TX4, a model that first graced London's streets, quickly became one of the world's most recognisable vehicles. Its design, while modern, consciously harks back to the classic styling cues of its predecessor, the FX4, ensuring that the iconic silhouette remains intact. While affectionately known as 'black cabs' by Londoners, these vehicles can actually be found in a vibrant array of colours, adding a touch of personality to the city's busy thoroughfares.

The TX4 London Cab: Designed for Everyone

One of the most remarkable and celebrated aspects of the TX4, and indeed the entire fleet of London black cabs, is their universal accessibility. Finding an accessible taxi can often be a significant challenge for individuals using wheelchairs in many cities worldwide. However, London stands apart: 100% of its iconic black cabs are wheelchair accessible. This extraordinary commitment to inclusivity is made possible by a cleverly designed ramp that folds out seamlessly from the cab's floor, allowing wheelchair users to roll directly into the vehicle.

While these cabs are incredibly functional, it's worth noting that they may not offer the same vast interior space as larger van conversions found in other countries, particularly in the USA. Nevertheless, most power wheelchairs can comfortably fit inside, providing a level of independence and ease of travel that is truly transformative. The fact that a wheelchair user can simply hail one of these cabs on the street, just like any other passenger, offers an unparalleled sense of freedom and convenience. This accessibility has even seen the TX4 exported to cities like Cairo and Beijing, creating access where it previously didn't exist.

Hailing and Booking Your Accessible Journey

In Central London, spotting a TX4 is incredibly easy; they are ubiquitous. A simple raise of your hand on the pavement will usually have a taxi at your disposal within minutes, if not seconds. This spontaneous availability is a significant advantage for both locals and tourists alike. However, if you find yourself outside Central London or prefer to plan your journey, you can always book a cab in advance via telephone or online. When booking, it is always wise to explicitly state that you require a wheelchair-accessible taxi to ensure your needs are met.

Several reputable companies operate wheelchair-accessible taxi services across London. Here are a few examples:

• Computer Cab: For cash bookings, call +44 0207 908 0207. For credit/debit card bookings, call +44 0207 432 1432. Their website is www.comcablondon.com.
• Dial-A-Cab: Reach them at +44 020 7253 5000 or visit www.dialacab.co.uk.
• Radio Taxis: Contact them on +44 020 7272 0272 or explore www.radiotaxis.co.uk.

Beyond the traditional black cabs, ride-sharing services like Uber have also introduced accessible options in London. Uber Access vehicles are typically equipped with rear-entry ramps and securement restraints, providing a safe and comfortable ride. While the wait times for these services can sometimes be longer than hailing a black cab on the street, they offer an alternative, often more spacious, option for wheelchair users.

Understanding London Taxi Fares

London taxi fares are meticulously regulated by the government, falling into three distinct categories based on the time and day of your journey. Transport for London (TfL) provides comprehensive information on how these fares are calculated, ensuring transparency for passengers.

The minimum charge for any taxi journey is £2.60.

Fare Tariffs Explained:

Tariff 1: Monday to Friday, 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. (excluding public holidays)

• First 234.8 metres or 50.4 seconds (whichever is reached first): Minimum charge applies.
• Each additional 117.4 metres or 25.2 seconds (up to 9656.1 metres): 20p.
• Beyond 9656.1 metres: 20p for each additional 86.9 metres or 18.7 seconds.

Tariff 2: Monday to Friday, 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday or Sunday, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. (excluding public holidays)

• First 191 metres or 41 seconds (whichever is reached first): Minimum charge applies.
• Each additional 95.5 metres or 20.5 seconds (up to 9656.1 metres): 20p.
• Beyond 9656.1 metres: 20p for each additional 86.9 metres or 18.7 seconds.

Tariff 3: Daily, 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. or at any time on public holidays

• First 162.4 metres or 35 seconds (whichever is reached first): Minimum charge applies.
• Each additional 81.2 metres or 17.5 seconds (up to 9656.1 metres): 20p.
• Beyond 9656.1 metres: 20p for each additional 86.9 metres or 18.7 seconds.

Additional Charges:

Certain situations may incur extra charges, which must be added to the meter at the start of the journey:

• Telephone and Online Bookings: A fee of £2 will be added to all bookings made online or by telephone.
• Heathrow Airport Departure: All trips commencing at Heathrow Airport are subject to an additional charge of £2.80.
• Christmas & New Year: A charge of £4 applies to journeys made between 8 p.m. on December 24 and 6 a.m. on December 27, or between 8 p.m. on December 31 and 6 a.m. on January 2.
• Cleaning Charge: Drivers may charge up to £40 if the passenger soils the vehicle, for instance, due to vomiting.

Given the intricacies of the fare system, it can be helpful to have a general idea of typical journey costs. While these are estimates and can vary based on tariff and traffic, they provide a useful guide:

As you can see, London taxi fares are not the cheapest, which is why many visitors and residents often consider public transport for longer journeys. However, for convenience, directness, and especially accessibility, the black cab remains a preferred choice for many.

Understanding TX4 Registration

For those interested in the specifics of a TX4's history, the UK's current vehicle registration system offers clues about its age. The two numbers in the middle of the registration plate indicate the year of registration.

• The first number in this two-digit sequence will be either a 1, 5, or 6.
• If it's a 1, the vehicle was registered between March and September of that year.
• If it's a 5 or 6, the vehicle was registered after September of the previous year and before March of the stated year.

For example, a registration plate like KC63 KFF tells us that the vehicle was registered between September 2013 and March 2014. This system provides a straightforward way to identify the approximate age of a TX4.

Maintaining Your TX4: Parts and Accessories

For owners of a TX4, or even the earlier TXI and TXII models, sourcing genuine parts and accessories is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's reliability and performance. Companies like Cab Autos specialise in providing an extensive range of genuine London Taxi Company (LTC) parts, covering TXI, TXII, TX4 (Euro IV), and the newer TX4 (Euro 5) models. They cater to both trade customers and individual owners, ensuring high levels of availability on demand.

Where to Buy and What to Expect:

Online shops offer a convenient way to browse and purchase parts. Typically, you can scroll down to the checkout section to select parts and make payments using PayPal or a credit card. If you encounter any issues, dedicated support is usually available.

• Extensive Range: You can find everything from body panels and bumper parts to mirrors, window glass, and clutch components. This includes complete clutch kits, clutch slave cylinders, and flywheels.
• Specific Parts: Items like the rear Panhard Rod for late TX2 & TX4 models are available, with prices around £180.00. Front door seals for TX1, TX2, and TX4 are also common, priced around £41.87.
• Mirror Compatibility: A set of four mirrors is specifically designed to fit the late TX1, TX2, and early TX4 model taxis, ensuring a perfect fit and high quality.

Parts Availability and Delivery:

Availability is a key concern for any vehicle owner. Many suppliers aim for quick turnarounds: if parts are in stock and ordered before 1 p.m., they are often delivered the following working day. Orders placed after 12 p.m. usually arrive within two working days. Delivery can be arranged, though charges may apply depending on the supplier and location. For specific enquiries about availability and cost, it's always best to call the supplier directly or use their online enquiry forms.

Frequently Asked Questions About the TX4

The TX4 is a vehicle that sparks many questions, both from those who ride in them and those who own them. Here are some of the most common queries:

Is every London black cab wheelchair accessible?

Yes, one of the most significant features of London's black cabs, including the TX4, is that 100% of them are legally required to be wheelchair accessible. They feature a fold-out ramp and sufficient space to accommodate wheelchairs, making London a leading city for accessible taxi services.

How much does a London taxi cost?

London taxi fares are regulated and depend on the time of day, day of the week, and public holidays. The minimum charge is £2.60. Journeys typically range from £6-£9.40 for 1 mile to £48-£90 for a trip from Heathrow Airport to Central London. Additional charges apply for bookings, airport departures, and during festive periods.

Can I book a TX4 in advance?

Yes, while hailing a cab on the street is common in Central London, you can book a TX4 in advance via telephone or online. Reputable taxi companies provide booking services, and it's advisable to specify if you require a wheelchair-accessible vehicle.

Where can I find genuine parts for my TX4?

Genuine parts for TX4 and earlier models like TX1 and TX2 can be purchased from specialist suppliers online. These suppliers, such as Cab Autos, stock a wide range of components from body panels to engine parts like clutch kits and specific items like the Panhard Rod. Look for online shops that offer secure payment options and clear delivery policies.

What is the difference between TX1, TX2, and TX4?

The TX1, TX2, and TX4 represent different generations of the modern London black cab, all manufactured by the London Taxi Company (LTC). The TX1 was the first modern iteration, followed by the TX2, which introduced some updates. The TX4, launched later, brought further refinements, including updated engines (Euro IV and Euro 5 compliant versions) and various enhancements to meet evolving regulations and passenger demands, while largely retaining the iconic design that harks back to the FX4.

How do I know the year of a TX4 from its registration plate?

On UK registration plates, the two numbers in the middle indicate the year. If the first digit of these two numbers is a '1', the vehicle was registered between March and September of that year. If it's a '5' or '6', it was registered between September of the preceding year and March of the stated year. For example, '63' indicates registration between September 2013 and March 2014.

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