Tonight:
5°c
Cab drivers threaten legal action over mystery fires
David Williams, Motoring Editor25 Sep 2008
The makers of London black cabs could be sued for damages by 800 drivers whose taxis were ordered off the road in the wake of a series of mystery fires.
The Licensed Taxi Drivers Association said it was unhappy about how long an investigation into the cause of the fires would last. An inquiry was launched after seven cabs burst into flames in the capital this summer.
The association said it would "pursue those responsible" for compensation and that this could include manufacturer London Taxis International.
Affected TX4 models cost between £30,000 and £40,0000 including finance charges. If the association pursues a full claim, Manganese Bronze, which wholly owns LTI, could face a liability of more than £30 million.
John Russell, chief executive of Manganese, said the firm did not yet know how long the investigation would take. He said the inquiry would establish responsibility for the fires and how much compensation would be paid.
The fires, which did not injure anyone, are also being investigated by the Public Carriage Office and Transport for London.
Reader views (8)
Perhaps, M&0 should rename its cab the TX4 Fire ball , and relaunch its product in a blaze of glory. 
.
- Travis Bickers, Ashton-under-lyne England., 09/10/2008 21:48
Report abuse
Someone in authority should be doing something for us NOW. If it wasn't for the LTDA, I'd be on my own. £714 a month and it's sat on the driveway. Another £210 a WEEK to rent another cab just to earn a living. Real VFM for my licence fee.
- Bill, London, 26/09/2008 01:55
Report abuse
Black cab drivers' fares are now extortionate anyway. We long since stopped using them & now use a reputable & reliable licensed mini cab firm, both for business and pleasure.
- Annabelle, london, 25/09/2008 23:24
Report abuse
m&os are now offering some fantastic new offers with every new taxi (tx4) you get a free service and a complimentary pair of m&os oven gloves!
- Mick-Taker The Cabbie, london,england, 25/09/2008 22:03
Report abuse
So what are we to do about our mortages,rent,finance ?
We are advised to rent a cab from where ? I have phoned every cab hire place going and no cabs left.
All the effected cabbies need to get together on this, and raise awareness !
- Henry,, Surrey, 25/09/2008 21:50
Report abuse
That does not put food on my family's table this week.
- Steve, Hornchurch Essex, 25/09/2008 18:12
Report abuse
You said that last week Nobby.
- Ted, London, 25/09/2008 14:58
Report abuse
Maybe they should reduce the amount of hot air coming from the driver's seat?
- Nobby Clark, Perth, Scotland., 25/09/2008 12:16
Report abuse
