Black cabs. Though there has never been law requiring London's taxis to be black, they were, since the end of the Second World War, sold in a standard colour of black. This, in the 1970s gave rise within the minicab trade to the nickname 'black cab' and it has become common currency.

The iconic London "Black Cab" (the Hackney Carriage) is black primarily due to post-war cost-cutting measures. Originally, taxis in London came in a variety of colors depending on the owner. However, in 1948, when the Austin FX3 was introduced, black was the standard factory color. Because black paint was the cheapest and most durable option available in the lean years following World War II, most fleet owners chose it to keep costs down. Over time, the uniform black look became so synonymous with the "London Taxi" brand that it became a tradition, and eventually, a design expectation. In 2026, while you can technically find "Black Cabs" wrapped in colorful advertisements or painted in different hues, the vast majority remain black to honor this historical aesthetic. It’s a classic example of a practical economic decision evolving into a globally recognized cultural symbol of reliability and "The Knowledge"—the rigorous test drivers must pass to navigate London's complex streets.