Every London black cab will take card payments by October

Every black cab in London will take card payments by October under plans published today.

The proposals from the taxi trade would also see all new taxis as Zero Emissions Capable from 2018 and could mean super-fast wifi pilots starting in cabs within two years.

But the drivers, tech companies and other players say a major commitment is needed from London’s next mayor.

Steve McNamara of the Licensed Taxi Drivers Association said: “What we are launching is London’s taxi revolution. [It’s] a guarantee to make the best taxi service in the world even better.

"Faster, smarter and greener is our offer and our ask of the next Mayor of London.”

TfL first announced the move to make all cabs card friendly last month, but the taxi drivers said today the new mayor must commit to ensuring it becomes a reality.

The plans aim for the taxi trade to work with TfL for taxi ranks at stops for Night Tube.

A £300 million investment from the London Taxi Company will help ensure new taxis are Zero Emissions Capable from 2018.