Mercedes-Benz Vito Taxi Approved for London Black Cab Duty
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz Vito, modified to meet Transport for London’s strict requirements, enters service as a fully certified black cab with capacity for six passengers.
Mercedes-Benz has secured approval for its 2017 Vito Taxi to operate as a London black cab, following extensive modifications to meet the capital’s unique licensing requirements. The Vito Taxi, based on the commercial Vito van, is now available for service in London after passing regulatory hurdles that have kept most rivals out of the market.
To comply with Transport for London’s strict rules, Mercedes-Benz engineers fitted the Vito Taxi with a rear steering axle, allowing it to achieve the mandatory 25-foot (7.62-metre) turning circle. This technical solution was necessary for licensing, as London’s narrow streets and taxi ranks demand exceptional manoeuvrability. Buyers in other parts of the UK can order the Vito Taxi without the rear steering axle, where it is marketed as the National Taxi.
Features and passenger capacity
The Vito Taxi offers space for up to six passengers, with a cabin layout designed for both comfort and accessibility. Standard kit includes electrically operated sliding doors on both sides and steps that extend to facilitate wheelchair access. Mercedes-Benz has also equipped the taxi with features from its passenger car range, such as Attention Assist, Active Parking Assist, and Blind Spot Assist. Air conditioning and a start/stop system are also fitted as standard.
- Seats six passengers
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance with extendable steps
- Electrically operated sliding doors on both sides
Market context and competition
Mercedes-Benz was the only manufacturer to gain approval for a non-traditional London cab at this stage, with other rivals, such as Nissan’s NV200, not securing the necessary certification at the time. The Vito Taxi enters a market long dominated by purpose-built black cabs, offering operators an alternative with modern safety and convenience features. For more on previous attempts to enter the London taxi market, seeNissan NV200 Taxi Targets London’s Black Cab Market.
