Eco City Vehicles launches electric London taxi

Britain's Eco City Vehicles has launched an electric prototype of the Mercedes Vito taxi, which will it trial later this year to test its suitability for use as part of London's iconic black taxi fleet.

"The eVito is the first all-electric wheelchair accessible taxi with a 25-foot turning circle to be launched in the world and a major step toward our goal to become a leading supplier of niche eco-friendly vehicles," said CEO Peter DaCosta.

The firm, which sells and services cabs, said on Monday it developed the Mercedes eVito alongside its manufacturing partners Penso, Mercedes Benz UK and Zytec Automotive.

Since its launch in 2008, the Mercedes Vito has proved to be a serious competitor to Manganese Bronze, the maker of London's traditional black taxis.

For further information: Reuters