Electric versions of capital's famous taxis play a part in creating a greener environment

Black cabs are London icons, just like landmarks such as Big Ben and Tower Bridge, but visitors to the UK capital may not realize that the latest versions of the taxis are zero-emission electric vehicles that use the most modern technology, thanks to the investment of Geely, the Chinese company that owns the London Taxi Co.

Since Geely bought the brand four years ago, the parent company has invested more than ￡325 million ($416 million; 382.7 million euros) in helping the British automotive manufacturer upgrade its production capacity. In March, the company unveiled a new factory in Coventry dedicated to making electric cabs.

"This plant, and the related investment, is just one symbol of my own and the wider Chinese confidence in the UK," says Li Shufu, chairman of Geely, who adds that he greatly values the United Kingdom as a "hub for innovation in new energy technology, for manufacturing expertise and for skills", despite uncertainty around the UK's decision to leave the European Union.

London Taxi Company makes electric taxis in its newly opened factory in Coventry. Provided to China Daily