Maker of black cabs loses trademark bid

NEW-STYLE taxis could roll on to city roads after two Court of Appeal judges ruled the shape of a traditional London black cab was not distinctive.

The London Taxi Company wanted to claim an exclusive right to the black cab shape and thwart a rival firm.

But Lord Justice Kitchin and Lord Justice Floyd upheld a High Court decision made in January last year by Mr Justice Arnold who ruled the shape was not a ‘valid registered trademark’.

Lord Justice Floyd indicated yesterday that Supreme Court justices might be asked to consider the case.

Rival company Ecotive revealed that it was now in a position to put its electric Metrocab into production.