London seeks to ban new petrol and diesel private hire vehicles from 2030 under new plans

A separate exception would be in place for wheelchair accessible PHVs, which would need to be zero emission from July 2030.

Transport for London said the new consultation is designed to improve air quality and reduce carbon emissions across the city.

TfL said it would also be “setting a clear direction for producers of wheelchair accessible vehicles”.

This will allow producers to meet TfL’s requirements in advance and develop vehicles that meet future licensing rules.

It estimates that the proposals will significantly reduce harmful NOx and CO2 emissions in the capital.

If the proposals are taken up, in the first 10 years, there could be a nine per cent reduction in PHV-based NOx emissions and a 35 per cent reduction in PHV-based CO2 emissions.

Over 18 years, the forecast would see emissions drop by 97 per cent compared with existing licensing restrictions.

Christina Calderato, director of strategy at TfL, acknowledged the important role that private hire vehicles play in the capital for customers.

She said: “However, this isn’t the only role they play. Private hire vehicles are also a vital component in London’s transition to becoming a more sustainable and healthier city with less pollution.

“Building on the progress that has already been made, this consultation sets out our proposals to strengthen those achievements and drive forward the transition towards a zero emission fleet.”

More than 70 per cent of private hire vehicles are already zero emission capable, with many more set to be released over the coming years.

The consultation also puts forward suggestions that, if accepted, will be rolled out from March 1, 2027.

These include no longer approving new alternative fuel conversion systems for vehicles, such as Liquefied Petroleum Gas and Compressed Natural Gas, and new exhaust abatement systems.

TfL would also reduce the maximum length of time for re‑licensing an expired taxi or private hire vehicle from 24 months to 12 months.

The transport authority would also restrict private hire vehicles from remaining licensed beyond the date at which the vehicle reaches 10 years old.

Seb Dance, Deputy Mayor for Transport, said: “The Mayor and I are proud that London’s PHV drivers have led the way in adopting zero-emission capable (ZEC) technology, with more than 70 per cent of their vehicles now ZEC – but there is more to do.

“That’s why we’re consulting on these proposals, which would help improve air quality, protect Londoners’ health and support our efforts to tackle the climate crisis.

“I encourage everyone to take part in the consultation as we continue building a greener, cleaner and more sustainable London for all.”