Cab Direct, part of Allied Vehicles Group, Europe’s largest accessible vehicle specialist, is proud to unveil the Ford MAXiCab, the UK’s only fully electric black cab, designed, engineered, and manufactured right here in Scotland. Based on the Ford Tourneo Custom and developed through an exclusive partnership with Ford, the MAXiCab combines Ford’s award-winning engineering with cutting-edge green technology, resulting in a taxi that sets new standards for sustainability, accessibility, and performance.

The MAXiCab is available in a range of models, including fully electric (BEV), plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) and diesel versions, offering flexibility to meet the needs of different operators and regions. The hybrid model combines superb fuel efficiency with much reduced emissions. The zero-emission, fully electric version goes even further, marking a significant milestone in the UK’s taxi industry and taking a leap forward towards cleaner, greener transport.

As part of Scotland’s ongoing commitment to reducing carbon emissions, the MAXiCab supports the nation’s pledge to achieve net-zero emissions by 2045. By introducing electric vehicles like the MAXiCab, Cab Direct is leading the charge to improve air quality while reducing the environmental impact of the taxi industry.

Scotland’s cities could soon have the greenest and most accessible taxi fleet in the country, even surpassing London, the UK’s capital, where taxi drivers currently won’t be able to purchase the MAXiCab, due to the antiquated taxi regulations there.

First Minister John Swinney said:

“This impressive new taxi - a UK first - developed by Allied Vehicles and supported in part by Scottish Enterprise, is a huge achievement that will bring so many benefits – supporting accessibility, connectivity, and helping to lower emissions."

“A fair and just transition to net zero is good for everyone in society – and Allied Vehicles are demonstrating just exactly what that means. Designed, engineered, and manufactured right here in Scotland, the new taxi is an excellent example of a company taking advantage of the economic opportunities of the transition to net zero, creating new jobs and exciting opportunities. We want to ensure that businesses across Scotland are able and encouraged to do the same."

“Innovations like this, which contribute to lowering emissions, will help create greener, healthier and more enjoyable environments for people and communities. And Scottish Government initiatives such as the Vehicle Emissions Trading Schemes, and Switched-On Taxi Loan, will encourage people and businesses across Scotland to play their part in advancing net zero.”

One of the standout features of the MAXiCab is its 20% increased manoeuvrability for wheelchair users. This makes it the most accessible hackney taxi on the market, allowing for smoother, safer, and more comfortable journeys for passengers with additional mobility needs. With its spacious interior, easy wheelchair access, and innovative design, the MAXiCab ensures greater inclusion for all passengers.

The development and manufacture of the MAXiCab have also brought significant economic benefits to Scotland, creating 50 new jobs in engineering, design, and production. The project was part-funded through an engineering development grant, provided by Scottish Enterprise.

Allied’s Managing Director, Peter Facenna, had this to say:

“Allied Vehicles has always been a proud Scottish company with a rich history of taxi and wheelchair accessible innovation. To overcome all the significant challenges to design and manufacture a wheelchair accessible fully electric cab, has been a feat of engineering, and I’m proud of the team here for achieving this. To have an opportunity to be pioneers in the fully electric taxi market and support the Scottish Government’s emissions target, is also particularly exciting.”

About Cab Direct and Allied Vehicles

Cab Direct is a leading supplier of specialist vehicles and is part of Allied Vehicles Group, a Scottish-based company employing nearly 900 people with decades of experience in designing, engineering, and manufacturing accessible vehicles for a wide range of customers. From wheelchair-accessible cars and minibuses to fully electric taxis, Allied Vehicles Group continues to demonstrate a commitment to innovation and excellence in the automotive industry.