Hayes & Harlington Gazette

Black cab or a cosy log cabin?

LONDON TAXI DECKED OUT WITH SHEEPSKIN RUGS, THROWS, FUR-LINED SLIPPERS AND A FIREPLACE

- By RICHARD DUGGAN richard.duggan@trinitymir­ror.com @MyLondon

AS a general rule, London’s black cabs are pretty identical, inside and out.

Although you might get the odd one that doesn’t quite conform to the norm, you tend to know what to expect... until now.

The world’s cosiest taxi has been unveiled and it’s currently roaming the capital’s streets.

The one-of-a-kind cab has been decked out to resemble a country log cabin – it features sheepskin rugs, compliment­ary slippers and even a roaring fireplace.

The vehicle really is perfect for Londoners looking to get to work on a chilly February day. The mobile log cabin – created by UK boiler manufactur­er Baxi – is currently operating on the city’s streets and will be taking commuters on free journeys during a trial period.

Following its London debut, the cab will be travelling up and down the country offering free lifts in cities across the UK including Birmingham, Manchester and Nottingham.

The interior is almost unrecognis­able as a London black cab, with blue velvet curtains hanging on the windows and screen divider. The decor is wood-cabin inspired; an imitation fireplace has been mounted to the passenger door, accompanie­d by a stack of logs to complete the effect.

Ahead of its launch, some lucky passersby were given the chance to try the Baxi Taxi out.

To book a free ride, passengers need to Tweet @Baxi_Taxi with their postcode and preferred pick up time.

The cab is decked out with curtains, faux fur rugs and home fixtures to provide the warmest ride of your life.

To complete the experience, passengers will even be given a pair of sheepskin slippers to give their feet the best possible start to the day.

Other decorative touches in the cab include a stag’s head mounted on the centre head rest to create a real ‘country cabin’ feel. Baxi marketing manager Sian Lewis said: “This winter has seen some really chilly mornings, and even as we head towards March it doesn’t seem to be improving.

“Our taxi will help people have a cosy experience on the way to work, making them feel as warm as if they were wrapped up in their duvet that morning.”

Wooden lanterns give soft light from the floor and the cab’s walls, and sumptuous cushions cover the seats and floor, along with luxurious wool throws.

Sian Lewis added: “Getting a cab rather than walking or taking public transport can often feel like an unnecessar­y luxury.

“But because ours won’t cost a penny, it means commuters can ride in absolute comfort, totally guilt-free.

“We’ve used all of our boiler and heating know-how to make a small space feel as warm and inviting as possible – with fantastic results.”

The Baxi Taxi will be appearing in towns and cities across the UK from Monday, February 25. Bookings will be available between 10am and 2pm and will be offered on a first-come-first-serve basis.

 ??  ?? Cab driver Ross with the taxi that’s full of surprises
Cab driver Ross with the taxi that’s full of surprises
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 ?? IMAGES: SWNS ?? Curtains, faux fur rugs and home fixtures help provide the cosiest ride of your life
IMAGES: SWNS Curtains, faux fur rugs and home fixtures help provide the cosiest ride of your life
 ??  ?? The decor is wood cabin inspired – an imitation fireplace is mounted to a door and a stack of logs completes the look
The decor is wood cabin inspired – an imitation fireplace is mounted to a door and a stack of logs completes the look

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