18/09/2008

Iconic Black Cabs Recalled After Fire

Hundreds of black cabs have been taken off the roads following a series of under-bonnet fires, it has emerged.

Around 600 of the iconic London taxis are to undergo safety checks after the eighth taxi in three months burst into flames, in the capital. Four similar incidents took place elsewhere in the country.

"A number have burst into flames," a spokesman for Transport for London (TfL) said. "We contacted the manufacturers, London Taxis International, but so far they have been unable to identify a fault.

"But given the number, we insisted on the recall."

The affected TX4 cabs could be taken off the road if they failed to pass the safety checks, TfL have said.

Drivers of TX4-type taxis with a 56 registration will be contacted on Thursday morning.

(JM)

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