Transport for London (TfL) has opened a consultation on proposals to accelerate the shift to zero-emission private hire vehicles (PHVs) in London.
Under the plans, all PHVs new to licensing would need to be fully electric from 3 July 2028. The requirement for wheelchair-accessible PHVs would begin on 1 July 2030.
Proposed licensing changes
TfL is also proposing changes from 1 March 2027 that would prevent the approval of new alternative-fuel conversion systems, including liquefied petroleum gas and compressed natural gas systems, as well as new exhaust-abatement systems.
The maximum period for relicensing an expired taxi or PHV would be reduced from 24 months to 12 months. After that point, the vehicle would be treated as new to licensing. TfL is also proposing that PHVs could not remain licensed once they reach 10 years old.
TfL forecasts that the proposed changes would cut PHV-generated nitrogen oxide emissions by 9% and carbon dioxide emissions by 35% over the first 10 years, compared with the existing licensing requirements. Over 18 years, the forecast reduction in these emissions is 97%.
More than 70% of London’s PHVs are now zero-emission capable. However, vehicles that can run in zero-emission mode but are not fully electric continue to produce exhaust emissions when operating in other modes.
The consultation is open until 23:59 on Wednesday 2 December 2026.
TfL says certainty is needed
Christina Calderato, TfL’s director of strategy, said the timetable would provide “a clear direction for producers of wheelchair accessible vehicles”, allowing them to understand future licensing requirements and develop compliant vehicles.
She said: “We recognise the crucial role that London’s private hire services play for customers, providing a vital door-to-door service. This is especially true where the public transport network has gaps or cannot yet meet all our customers’ needs.
“However, this isn’t the only role they play. Private hire vehicles are also a vital component in London’s transition to becoming a more sustainable and healthier city with less pollution. Building on the progress that has already been made, this consultation sets out our proposals to strengthen those achievements and drive forward the transition towards a zero-emission fleet.”
Deputy Mayor for Transport Seb Dance said the proposals would help improve air quality and support efforts to address climate change while maintaining an accessible door-to-door service.
He said: “The Mayor and I are proud that London’s PHV drivers have led the way in adopting zero-emission capable (ZEC) technology, with more than 70 per cent of their vehicles now ZEC – but there is more to do. That’s why we’re consulting on these proposals, which would help improve air quality, protect Londoners’ health and support our efforts to tackle the climate crisis.”