Geely To Build Electric London Cab

Geely, co-owner of Manganese Bronze, the manufacturer of the London Cab, is reportedly interested in converting the taxis to run on electric power. The Chinese automaker reportedly held talks with London mayor Boris Johnson during the Beijing Summer Olympics, and Geely chairman Li Shufu says "we are doing research on this project." In other words, it seems like a good idea but we don't know what motor we'll use or how we're going to package the batteries in a way that would still allow for passengers. Still, the Chinese have significant electric experience with minibikes and small vehicles — Tang Hua anyone? — so we're not going to doubt Geely's resolve. We just don't want to be the first fares one of these new electric London Cabs picks up.
[China Car Times]