What is TfL proposing?
Since 1 January 2023, a private hire vehicle licensed by TfL for the first time has had to be zero emission capable (ZEC): either fully electric, or a plug-in hybrid with a minimum electric range. TfL now proposes tightening that so newly licensed vehicles must be fully zero emission at the tailpipe.
| Vehicles new to licensing in London | Must be fully electric from |
|---|---|
| Private hire vehicles (minicabs) | 3 July 2028 |
| Wheelchair-accessible private hire vehicles | 1 July 2030 |
The consultation also asks about alternative fuel conversions and exhaust clean-up systems for taxis and private hire vehicles, how long an expired licence can be renewed before the vehicle counts as new, and how age limits for private hire vehicles are applied. TfL says it is still considering a zero emission requirement for London black cabs in future.
What it does not mean
- It is not final. TfL will decide after the consultation closes.
- It is London only. Other councils set their own taxi and private hire licensing rules.
- It is about vehicles new to licensing. The headline requirement applies when a vehicle is licensed as a minicab for the first time.
- It does not affect private cars. Driving your own petrol or diesel car in London is governed by the ULEZ and the Congestion Charge, which this consultation does not change.
Who should respond?
Minicab drivers and operators planning to license a vehicle for the first time from mid-2028 are most affected, as a plug-in hybrid would no longer qualify. Passengers, including wheelchair users, can also respond. The consultation is on TfL's Have Your Say website until 2 December 2026.
If you are weighing up an electric car for work, compare costs with our EV charging cost calculator and EV charging time calculator, and read about electric car tax.
Questions drivers ask
Will London minicabs have to be electric?
TfL is proposing that private hire vehicles licensed in London for the first time must be fully electric from 3 July 2028, and wheelchair-accessible ones from 1 July 2030. It is a consultation, not a final decision.
When does the TfL minicab consultation close?
2 December 2026.
Can minicabs be plug-in hybrids now?
Yes. Since 1 January 2023, newly licensed London minicabs must be zero emission capable, which includes plug-in hybrids with a minimum electric range.
Does this affect black cabs?
Not in this consultation. TfL says it is still considering a zero emission requirement for London taxis in future.
Sources
- TfL Have Your Say: Zero emission requirement for private hire vehicles new to licensing (22 October 2026)
- TfL: Emissions standards for private hire vehicles
- Transport + Energy: TfL launches consultation on zero-emission private hire vehicles (22 October 2026)
Facts checked against the sources above on 24 October 2026. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
