The definition of ‘Purpose-Built’ seems to have been lost somewhere along the way.

Purpose-Built means “built for the purpose”, it does not mean “adapted for the purpose”.

It seems that even suppliers are now getting this wrong. The latest Cab Direct advert (TaxiTalk Feb. 2007) gives one of the reasons to buy an E7 as “Purpose-Built”.

The E7 is not Purpose-Built. It is adapted / converted.

At LTI in Coventry, materials and components are taken into the factory, assembled and then, at the other end of the production line is a Purpose-Built taxi.

At Cab Direct’s ‘factory’, light vans are taken in. Here, seats and ‘TAXI’ stickers are added. The final product is… a van with seats and ‘TAXI’ stickers.

OK… the E7 is safe and operates successfully as a licensed taxi. That is not my argument. What I am saying though is that it is not, and never will be, a Purpose-Built taxi.

LTI Vehicles launched their latest model on 18th October 2006 and already it has proven to be a massive hit with drivers.

Mann And Overton – one of the capital’s two LTI dealers – have announced record sales figures and have now sold their 500th TX4. 1200 of the cabs have been sold nationally.

The all new TX4 represents safety and reliability at the highest level and is fitted with VM’s Euro IV compliant engine. This means that it meets with current and future emissions legislation.

With a stylish new exterior, a grille that wouldn’t look out of place on a Roller and a refined interior, the TX4 is undoubtedly the best taxi we have ever seen.

Why not take a look for yourself – you’ll be glad you did. Visit or call into Mann & Overton’s smart new showroom at Brewery Road, Islington.