The new model has a more eco-friendly diesel engine

Called TX4, the new cabs will sport a mesh grille on its front-end and its interiors have been upgraded to make the ride more comfortable.

The new models will replace older cabs introduced in 2002. The cost of the new cab ranges between �26,995 and �35,495.

Black cabs were introduced in 1948 and since then London Taxis International (LTI) has made more than 100,000 cabs.

Extreme road test

The new model has been fitted with a Euro IV compliant diesel engine which will also run on 5% Bio-Diesel fuel-mix, in keeping with the needs of the world market, the company said.

The vehicle has been extensively tested and �5.5m has been invested to come up with the new model. The company has been working on the latest version for nearly three years, managing director of LTI Vehicles, Peter Shillcock, said.

"Over one million kilometres of testing has taken place, including nearly 5,000km over pave cobbled road surfaces... in real-life extreme hot and cold climates and simulated conditions."

The new model also has anti-locking brake and equipment and facilities for both able and disabled passengers.

The new cabs are set to reach dealers by next week.