Liu Jinliang, general manager of Sales Arm, Geely Group, said, "The initial cost to purchase this vehicle would be higher than normal taxis. It would also cost more in terms of petrol usage and operational costs. But we will try our best to reduce the amount of time that the taxi would be empty. In China, we will attempt to use the model of a specialized operator."

Geely is also going to make the iconic cab available in 12 colors including the classic black. The automaker aims to sell the TX4 models not only to taxi operators, but corporate and private buyers as well.

Liu Jinliang said, "A lot of wealthy businessmen would buy a car for their wives or their children, or to display one of these cars at home. During the weekend, they would drive the vehicle for fun. It would be something scenic in itself and display a very English style. It would be a head-turner and attract a lot of attention."

The made-in-China TX4 is priced at between 200,000 and 230,000 yuan, roughly a third less than the cost of a made-in-Britain model.

If Geely's investment proves popular, there could soon be many more London cabs picking up fares on the streets of China.

(CCTV June 25, 2009)