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Posted on the 20th July 2025 in PHTM News
FROM BLACK CAB TO WHITE TAXI AMBULANCE NHS TRUST LAUNCHES GREENER PATIENT TRANSPORT
The iconic London black cab is taking on a new role, transporting patients to hospital appointments across the capital.
Guy’s and St Thomas’ has taken on a fleet of 12 “taxis” to join its existing patient transport. These TX vehicles, made by London EV Company (LEVC), look like a London taxi, but are white and include the NHS logo and Trust name alongside high-visibility ambulance markings to make them easily identifiable.
The electric hybrid vehicles are fully wheelchair accessible as standard, and include other features making it easier for people who are less mobile, including integrated ramps for getting wheelchairs in and out, a step, a swivel seat, braille switches and high visibility handles.
So far, the taxi-ambulances have covered 60,000 miles around London transporting 13,000 patients to scheduled appointments at Guy’s and St Thomas’ hospitals and community clinics.
They are the latest additions in the Trust’s transport provision for vulnerable patients and those who wouldn’t otherwise be able to make their appointment.
They also have the renowned taxi turning circle for navigating central London streets.The new vehicles are more comfortable for patients, as they are quiet, spacious and have room for medical equipment to be easily stored. Being fully wheelchair accessible means they can be used for patients with a range of needs and can take several patients at a time, if needed.
Daniel Crossey, general manager of non-emergency patient transport at Guy’s and St Thomas’, said: “These new vehicles are more sustainable and accessible, but also look great. Everyone can identify a London cab – we’ve even had people try to flag one down on the street.
“The feedback we’ve had from patients who are using these is really positive – they like the comfort, the additional space and the flexibility they provide. And our drivers enjoy taking them out on the roads. They’re a great addition to our patient transport fleet.”
Jenny Jin, Executive Director at LEVC, said: “TX is a purpose-built electrified vehicle designed to serve a wide range of transport needs, and we’re delighted to see it making a real difference for patients at Guy’s and St Thomas’. With its iconic design, zero-exhaust emission capability and class-leading accessibility, the TX is perfectly suited to support NHS services. We’re proud to be working with the Trust and look forward to strengthening our partnership in the future.”
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