HJS Emission Technology has achieved a monumental milestone for the London taxi trade, successfully completing the first TfL-approved upgrade of a Euro 5 TX4 black cab to Euro 6 emissions standards.
This breakthrough offers a vital lifeline to thousands of London cabbies who have faced uncertainty due to tightening emissions regulations and the looming expiration of vehicle licences.
A New Lease of Life for the TX4
The first vehicle to undergo the conversion belongs to London driver Bobby Holley. Following the installation of the HJS Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system and a rigorous inspection by TfL, the cab was officially certified as Euro 6 compliant.
The approval is a game-changer for the industry:
- Extended Lifespan: Converted Euro 5 taxis are now eligible to remain licensed for up to 15 years, matching the operating limit of newer Euro 6 factory models.
- Increased Compliance: The upgrade allows older diesel cabs to meet Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) requirements without the massive capital expenditure of a new electric vehicle.
- Immediate Licensing: For drivers whose plates have recently expired, TfL has confirmed that cabs can return to operation once the conversion is completed and inspected.
How the Technology Works
The HJS retrofit system uses advanced SCR technology and AdBlue to significantly reduce Nitrogen Dioxide (NOx) emissions. The system operates independently of the vehicle’s original electronics, ensuring the cab’s performance remains reliable while meeting the stringent environmental standards required to clean up London’s air.
Bobby Holley, the first driver to benefit from the scheme, expressed his relief:
“This is what we’ve all been waiting for. There was a point where it felt like it might never happen. Now drivers like myself have a clear way forward and can finally plan for the future.”
Looking Ahead
HJS Emission Technology is now preparing to scale the rollout of these kits across the capital. Priority is currently being given to drivers based on the expiry date of their taxi plates to minimise time off the road.
With thousands of TX4s still in service, this approved retrofit provides a sustainable and economically viable bridge for the trade as it continues its long-term transition toward zero-emission capable vehicles.
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