SPLIT MARKET: Taxi age, finance and parts supply driving used black cab vehicle buyer trends
- Perry Richardson
- May 27
- 2 min read
Updated: May 28
The used taxi market is being shaped by three key factors suggests one London taxi fleet expert: vehicle age, access to finance and availability of spare parts.
Each of the three variables are playing a distinct role in influencing both buyer behaviour and vehicle pricing. Older taxis, such as the TX4 and Vito, remain popular among experienced drivers. Many prefer to stick with what they know, even if newer models like the TXE offer long-term savings on fuel and emissions. This reluctance to move to newer tech keeps demand alive for older diesel models. However, age also brings maintenance challenges and increases the risk of parts becoming scarce or expensive.
Finance is also seen as a major factor among younger drivers. While there is strong interest in the TXE, many cannot access the finance needed for a new one. As a result, low-mileage used TXEs are in high demand, pushing up prices for well-maintained examples. Without better finance options, this group is limited to what they can afford upfront, narrowing the pool of viable vehicles.
Parts supply is also starting to impact prices. For example, late Euro VI TX4s are now seeing reduced values due to difficulties in sourcing components. In contrast, the Mercedes Vito has not seen the same price drop, despite similar supply issues, possibly due to consistent demand from airport drivers.
Together, these factors are creating a split market. Older drivers lean toward familiar, affordable models, while younger drivers look for efficient newer options within tight budgets. Meanwhile, supply issues are making vehicle choice and upkeep a growing concern for everyone involved.
The taxi fleet expert said in TAXI newspaper: “The second-hand market is still a bit gloomy, with two distinct sets of buyers. The first is older drivers, who are wary of a TXE, either because of the scare stories they have heard, most of which are utter rubbish anyway, or those who just want to stick with what they know, be that a TX4 or a Vito.
“The other group, mainly younger drivers, want a TXE but either do not want, or cannot get, the finance necessary for a new one, who are looking for the lowest mileage, best condition TXE that their budget will stretch to.
“The parts situation on late euro VI TX4s is beginning to impact on the prices that they are fetching. Interestingly, the very real parts supply issues on rear wheel steer components on Vitos is not impacting on their prices anywhere near as much. Personally, I think this is down to demand from airport drivers who, for one reason or another, are looking to stay in a Vito at almost any cost.”
