THE driver of a black cab claims the best way to beat endless fuel hikes is to ditch your petrol engine and go green, writes Michael Adkins.

Tony Ellis, from Bromley, has been driving a gas guzzler with a difference this week - the only LPG cab in London.

Computer Cab, the UK's largest radio taxi firm, has been trialling the car which features a specialist Australian engine.

Mr Ellis, who has been in the industry for 28 years, says he 'absolutely loves' the car and is saving money by filling up on gas.

On Monday petrol rose by two pence per litre, with a further two pence rise due in April next year the cost per litre is expected to break the £1 barrier.

Mr Ellis said: "I have been driving this around for a week now and I love it, I fill up with gas, it's greener and it's cheaper, what more can you want.

"The problem with the fuel rises is that despite what most people think we cannot pass it on to the customer. All London cabbies are self employed and the price is set each year. We cannot simply put up our fares when petrol goes up so drivers will have to pay the extra. It has been a difficult time for London cabbies because many have spent £2,000 on the conversion to stop the emissions.

"We all understand the need to protect the environment, we all hate paying increased fuel prices so my advice is to convert to gas. I'm a great believer and I think it's the way to go."

Mr Ellis spent £31 on 65.01 litres of gas when he filled up his gas converted vehicle but would have only got about 40 litres of fuel for the same amount.

Many drivers may be put off driving around looking for a garage that caters for gas engines but he said if you are in the industry they will now where to go.

He added: "As the new petrol garages are being built gas fill-ups are being included. There is a garage in Widmore Road, Bromley that I use, it's great. You can plan your work and it is not a massive deal. The tank even has a few reserve litres of fuel so you won't find yourself running out."

The driver is well-known in the London taxi industry in London as the spokesperson for Cabwatch.

He co-ordinates with representatives of the City of London and Westminster about driver concerns, congestion and anti-terrorism operations.

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