Black cabs given new digital boards to provide live London traffic updates

New digital advertising boards warning motorists of traffic delays are being mounted on top of London's iconic black cabs.

From this week, Transport for London is running a trial of the innovative new boards, which will display traffic information live in a bid to encourage other motorists to avoid congested roads.

Initially, targeted messages will inform road users of traffic levels in 40 to 50 areas where there are known traffic delays.

But if the trial is successful the technology could be used in future to provide real-time updates on incidents across the whole of London's road network.

Messages will be displayed on around 200 taxis, which have been fitted with the electronic boards using GPS technology to ensure that the information is accurate and up-to-date.

Garrett Emmerson, TfL's Chief Operating Officer for Surface Transport, said: "This trial is an innovative new way to reach road users in London and keep them informed of traffic conditions. Using the Capital's fleet of taxis to get real-time traffic information out will inform other drivers of any disruption on the network, helping them to avoid the most congested routes.

"It is one of many ways we are focusing our attention on keeping London moving, particularly during the current success-driven boom in construction seen across London."