Taxi-Mart Blog

New E7 – Speaks for Itself

admin2 — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 13:52:09 +0000

The purpose-built E7 has already revolutionised the UK’s hackney taxi market and the new generation from Cab Direct and Peugeot is proving a huge success amongst the taxi trade, impressing drivers with even more ground-breaking features.

One such customer is Brian Murray from Cambridge. Brian was already a happy driver with his Peugeot EuroTaxi from Cab Direct. However, when he saw the new E7 he knew it was time to change: “It doesn’t compare. I simply can’t believe how far you’ve come in the last 5 years – it makes me wonder where you’ll be in the next 5!”

Brian, who works from the railway station, is no stranger to luggage laden customers but thanks to new E7’s design, accommodating an amazing 70% more luggage space he never has a problem: “It’s just fantastic. There is so much room – especially with the ease of moving the rear passenger seat forward. And you can also get luggage in the front if need be.”

Indeed the celebrated EasySlide™ rear seat is a big hit with drivers, enabling you to create even more space for loading cases out of harm's way. You can also choose an additional luggage pen or tip-up seat up front. And, for the first time, you have the option of the E7 plus with a long wheelbase for even greater luggage room.

Brian isn’t the only one happy with his purchase as he quips: “Lots of customers have commented on the E7. In fact, one even asked if it was going to cost more as it was such a lovely taxi.”

Historically in his area taxis have been TX’s or saloon cars but, as Brian explains, change is afoot: “TX’s are on their way out here I think. They were already too expensive anyway and now with the rise in fuel it’s even worse. I am always being asked to demo the new E7 to the other drivers and they are never disappointed.”

Designed and manufactured jointly by Peugeot and Cab Direct the new E7 is synonymous with quality and reliability. The secret of that success lies in a vehicle that is genuinely purpose-built for the modern-day, professional driver. As Brian suggests: “The new E7 speaks for itself.”

For further information on the E7 freephone 0800 916 3058, email info@cabdirect.com or visit www.cabdirect.com

Tags: taxi sales, used taxis, taxi-insurance, black cabs

Hybrid London Taxi

admin2 — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 11:00:17 +0000

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?'

http://www.theengineer.co.uk/Articles/306483/Power+surge.htm

Tags: black cabs, taxi-insurance, london taxis, taxi sales

Another Winner from Ford & Cab Direct

admin2 — Mon, 26 May 2008 16:18:58 +0000

Experienced cabbie Ronald Gill, from Chelmsford in Essex, decided to give his business a boost by purchasing a brand new Ford Mondeo from Cab Direct.

Ronald was quick to explain what made him decide his new taxi should be a car that has established itself as a firm favourite throughout the UK.

"I decided I wanted to change my taxi as it had seen better days so I had a good look at the various saloons and estates available.

“The Ford Mondeo immediately stood out because I felt the vehicle spec was pretty extensive in relation to the low weekly payments Cab Direct was able to quote me.”

Economy

Ronald continued: “I suppose any taxi driver needs to be thinking about his outgoings as well as what he’s taking in and the excellent fuel economy makes my overall costs much lower.”

“My colleagues can’t believe I’m paying under £58 per week and with air conditioning, cruise control and numerous other features as standard it's great news for the driver as well as my pocket!"

Evolution

With even greater levels of quality, style and equipment, New Mondeo redefines the standards in its class. Its crisp exterior lines are now accentuated by deep new bumpers, an elegant front grille with chrome surround and the latest range of dynamic alloy wheels. Inside, premium materials, textures and soft-touch surfaces emphasise refined craftsmanship and elegance.

Cab Direct Managing Director Paul Nelson commented: "We're delighted that Ronald has joined a growing trend by becoming the latest taxi driver to purchase this popular vehicle.”

Paul continued: “It’s also really encouraging to hear that Ronald’s Mondeo is proving economical to run as well as providing a quality tool for the job”.

For further information on the exciting New Mondeo taxi range available from Cab Direct call 0800 916 3058 or visit www.cabdirect.com

Tags: london taxis, taxi sales, used taxis, taxi-insurance

Cab Direct Take on the Challenge

admin2 — Mon, 26 May 2008 16:16:01 +0000

Leading taxi supplier Cab Direct’s staff gave it their all as they tackled a 5K run to raise money for the wheelchair rehabilitation charity WheelPower.

Staff at Cab Direct’s head office in Glasgow took part in the 5k Fun Run, organised by the North Glasgow Healthy Living Community. The charity’s main objective is to increase aspirations, promote opportunities and facilitate positive changes within these communities and the annual fun run has proved a great success in doing just that.

Over 2,200 fun runners participated in what turned out to be the biggest of its kind since the event started three years ago. The event attracted a very diverse crowd from serious runners to zany joggers in fancy dress - even some pooches were seen sporting their running gear!

En route entertainment from local bands and a bag piper contributed to the party atmosphere by keeping the fun runners in good sprits and helped encourage everyone to keep smiling despite their tired legs.

Allied Vehicles, Cab Direct’s parent company, were one of this years sponsors of the 5k and a group of enthusiastic Cab Direct staff took on the challenge of running the race.

Leighanne Hutcheson in Cab Direct’s marketing department commented on the race: “It was a fantastic day with a great turnout. Everyone was in good spirits and we all had a great time!”

The team for Cab Direct were running to raise vital funds for WheelPower, the national charity for wheelchair sport that helps disabled men, women and children

achieve their sporting aspirations. The group collected £360 for WheelPower that will go towards the purchase of sports wheelchairs.

Well done guys!

Cab Direct staff delighted at the finish line

Tags: london taxis, used taxis, taxi sales, taxi-insurance

Robert Marie - another ecstatic E7 customer

admin2 — Mon, 26 May 2008 16:12:24 +0000

Robert Marie MBE from Jersey recently took delivery of his new E7 and is delighted with his choice. Having previously owned 3 E7’s, Robert had opted for a change with his last taxi and bought a VW minibus. However, following last years motor show in Coventry he decided that the new E7 was definitely the car for him and since reverting back to the tailor-made taxi from Peugeot he couldn’t be happier.

Robert commented: “The new E7 is definitely the taxi for me. It has everything – visibility, spaciousness, safety and miles to the gallon. It’s absolutely ideal and I won’t go back to driving anything else.”

And Robert isn’t the only one enthusing about new E7 as he explained: “People are always commenting on the taxi and saying how nice it is, other drivers and customers alike – it happens all the time. In fact, my last customer has only just mentioned what a lovely taxi it is.”

Robert went on to say: “I’d recommend the E7 to anybody. You can’t get a better taxi in my opinion. It is, by far, the best taxi I’ve ever driven.”

And he isn’t joking. Robert is so impressed with the new E7 that not only has he recommended it to other drivers in his area but he has even pinned up leaflets at Jersey Airport.

There is no disputing the E7’s exceptional driveability with numerous independent road tests highlighting the vehicle’s superb all-round vision, manoeuvrability and handling. Purpose built for the taxi market, New E7 brings you even more ground-braking features ideal for the modern day driver and Robert Marie, another happy customer, is testament to that.

For further information on the E7 freephone 0800 916 3058, email info@cabdirect.com or visit www.cabdirect.com

Tags: used taxis, taxi-insurance, black cabs, taxi sales

SsangYong relaunches the Rodius with 250,000 mile warranty

admin2 — Wed, 21 May 2008 14:56:29 +0000

Big in size, huge in value, the SsangYong Rodius combines the luxury and sophistication of a saloon with the versatility and spaciousness you’d expect from a large people carrier. Measuring 5125mm long, 1915mm wide and 1820mm tall, the seven-seater Rodius is, simply, the largest MPV in its class and offers exceptional performance and handling for the size. With high standard specification, flexible centre seating and cavernous boot space you’d expect it to cost the earth – think again.

Reassurance

Now SsangYong have joined forces with Cab Direct to relaunch the Rodius in the taxi market. And the great news for cabbies is that the Rodius now comes with the reassurance of a special 3 year, 250,000 mile taxi warranty, providing you with one of the best guarantees in the business.
For the taxi operator Cab Direct now offer the Rodius S and ES, each with a 2.7 litre turbo diesel engine, producing163bhp and 342Nm of pulling power.
The 270 S starts from the amazingly low price of only £14,995 and is equipped with ABS, remote keyless entry, speed-sensing door locks, climate control and Kenwood audio system. It is also hugely practical with multiple seat variations and useful extras such as two 12v DC power outlets.

The Rodius 270 ES gains reverse parking sensors, auto headlights, electric folding mirrors, privacy glass, alloy wheels, ESP and leather upholstery for only £2,000 more. Mercedes T-Tronic 5-speed automatic transmission is also available and is expected to prove popular with the taxi trade.
Sales Director of Cab Direct, Peter Facenna, commented: “Being the largest MPV in its class, the Rodius is tailor-made for the taxi trade. And at such an affordable price it offers unrivalled value for money. We are extremely happy to be working with SsangYong and expect the Rodius to be a big hit with drivers.”

For further information on the SsangYong Rodius call Cab Direct free on 0800 916 3058, email info@cabdirect.com or visit www.cabdirect.com

The SsangYong Rodius, now available at Car Direct

Tags: taxi sales, used taxis, london taxis, black cabs

Cab firm fears London downturn

admin2 — Fri, 09 May 2008 14:47:21 +0000

Black cab maker Manganese Bronze yesterday reported sharply higher profits on the back of the launch of its TX4 model last year, but warned sales so far this year had been affected by the uncertainty which has swept through London's financial market.

The group said that it made an operating profit of £5.6m in the 17 months to the end of December compared with £3.2m in the year to the end of July 2006.

John Russell, chief executive, said the company was "delighted with the improving profitability and significant increase in operating cash flow resulting from the success of the TX4 and the substantial progress we have made in our joint venture in Shanghai".

The group has set up a joint venture, Shanghai LTI, with Geely Automotive, which is hoping to produce its first prototype by the middle of the year. Manganese Bronze said it believed the link-up would allow the company to reduce its cost base.

Manganese Bronze said passenger demand for taxis remained healthy despite the uncertainties in financial markets, though it acknowledged: "Sales in the first quarter are below last year due to this uncertainty and also in comparison with one of our best first quarter sales performances … following the launch of the TX4."

A spokesman said that while sales were down in January and February, there had been a record performance in March.

Russell said that the company's focus for 2008 would be putting the TX4 into production in Shanghai.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2008/apr/17/transport

Tags: used taxis, black cabs, taxi sales, taxi-insurance

G13 CAB Private registration number plate – an exclusive:

admin2 — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 16:20:50 +0000

Private registration number plate – an exclusive:

G13 CAB

This vehicle registration number represents a unique investment opportunity for individuals in the taxi-cab industry. This number plate also has a wider appeal within the cabriolet market and for the private investor. G13 number plates (readable as "GB") have become an increasingly desirable plate choice over recent years.

Readable as "GB CAB", the plate above will be sold from May 2008. The starting price is £4000. For further details including the final sale date in June 08, please register your initial interest with: p.j.mellor.02@cantab.net

http://www.taxi-mart.co.uk/More.aspx?id=3490

Tags: london taxis, taxi-insurance, black cabs, taxi sales

Pool Motors London Taxi Specialists

admin2 — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 08:08:44 +0000

Pool Motors of North London have recently uveiled their new website. I decided I would take a look for myself, the address is: http://www.poolmotors.co.uk/

I found that the site was very well laid out and that navigating around it was very easy. There was also plenty of information & pictures. It has all of the features you would expect from an up to date site including the image gallery and a map if you are not familiar with their location.

As for a recomendation, I have only used them once a long time ago when they wheelchair converted a 'Plus' for me but I remember they were great to deal with and the job was completed on time.

If you need a qoute or want to book your taxi in ether give them a call on: 020 8348 7721 or email them at: poolmotors@gmail.com

Pool Motors - London Taxi Specialists

Tags: taxi-insurance, black cabs, used taxis, taxi sales

Jobs Expansion at Cab Direct

admin2 — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 15:24:32 +0000

Taxi manufacturer Cab Direct has completed the latest phase of development at its main manufacturing plant.

Opened at the beginning of April the new factory adds 98,000 square feet of vehicle production space to Cab Direct’s existing 12-acre site. 40 new vehicle assembly jobs are also being created, bringing the total workforce to more than 350 people.

Purpose-Built

The new factory now houses production for some of Cab Direct’s most popular taxi products, including the purpose-built Peugeot E7 and Mercedes-Benz M8 taxis. Other models include flexible people carriers like the Peugeot Eurobus and Volkswagen Odyssey, together with low-cost wheelchair accessible vehicles like the Ford Journey and Fiat Freedom. The company also produces a wide range of minibus taxis.

The additional factory space has been created next to Cab Direct’s existing premises where pre-fabrication operations, paint workshops, distribution and engineering development are also being extended.

Cab Direct managing director Paul Nelson explained the reasons behind this latest expansion: “Over the past year orders have grown steadily and it became clear that we would soon need more space to cope with demand.

Increase

“It’s certainly the best kind of problem to have but it was crucial that we find a way to increase production capacity,” continued Paul.

“Being able to expand next to our existing site, rather than have to move elsewhere, was ideal. We‘ve been able to retain all of our existing workforce, as well as building on the skills of experienced staff as we recruit new assembly workers.”

Paul concluded: “All of this is of course great news for British manufacturing as well as for Cab Direct and it’s wonderful to see a steady flow of new recruits going through our intensive training programme. www.cabdirect.com

Tags: taxi sales, black cabs, used taxis, taxi-insurance