Another TSB project is also aimed at transforming an icon — the London taxi. Fuel cell specialist Intelligent Energy, which was responsible for the power unit of the ENV concept scooter in 2006, is working with Lotus, TRW Conekt and London Taxi International to produce an electric hybrid cab in time for the 2012 London Olympics.

Taxis are ideal candidates, because central depots can provide the hydrogen needed, freeing them from the existing fuelling infrastructure. The new taxis — a fleet of 50-100 vehicles is the target for the project —will run for an entire day on a single tank of hydrogen, and will be capable of a top speed of 75 mph. in fact, IE claims they will be capable of better acceleration than a conventional taxi. 'The Black Cab is an internationally recognised London icon, and this partnership is an important part of making low-carbon transport a practical and near-term reality,' said Henri Winard, IE chief executive.

His company's part in the project is to develop a proton-exchange membrane fuel cell capable of producing in excess of 25kW of power. Lotus will package the components of the system and build a control system to optimise the performance of both fuel cells and motors. And TRW Conekt is to lead the safety analysis aspect of the project.

'The taxi project will provide further evidence of our ability to put commercially available hydrogen fuel cell vehicles on the market,' said Winard. 'What better stage to prove the credentials of UK innovation than on the way to the 2012 Olympics?'

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