Passengers in Norwich are being driven around in style thanks to local drivers investing in the latest generation of purpose-built taxis.

The recently-launched TX4 keeps the distinctive shape of the traditional London style taxi, making it instantly recognisable on the street, but hides a host of environmental and safety enhancements inside.

A number of drivers in the city have been quick to buy the TX4 models from manufacturer LTI Vehicles to ensure passengers get the smoothest possible ride and that emissions are kept to a minimum.

The Italian-made VM engine meets latest EU regulations on emissions while standard anti-lock brakes and remodelled suspensions ensure the ride is safe and comfortable.

Among the drivers who snapped up a TX4 soon after its launch was Richard Wilson, of Tolver Taxis.

The 50-year-old, who has been driving cabs around Norwich since 1990, was looking to upgrade his older purpose-built model and placed an order before he had even taken one for a test drive.

“I heard that 30 of the TX4s were sold on the day it was launched. That was good enough for me,” he said.

“I just knew it was going to be a good taxi, good for both me and for my passengers, so I phoned my nearest dealer, Conders, and ordered one there and then.

“The improvements from previous models are things like having ABS, a much smoother ride and the engine being cleaner and more responsive. It is superb and reacts very quickly.

“I much prefer having vehicle that is built to be a taxi rather than a van that has been converted for use as one. There is no point building a van and turning it into a taxi, you may as well have something fit for purpose in the first place.

“The TX4 is also immediately recognisable on the street as a taxi. People know the shape.

“A lot of passengers have commented on the smoother ride. They seem to really like it.

“Other drivers have asked me what it is like and I have told them the truth. I hope now that more drivers will get them so Norwich can have the cleanest, newest fleets of purpose-built taxis around.”