West Midlands-based LTI vehicles - makers of the famous London Taxi - is looking to further expand its success by exporting to overseas markets.

LTI is part of Manganese Bronze Holdings, which employs over 450 at their Coventry plant and wholly owned Mann and Overton dealerships in London, Birmingham, Bristol and Manchester. A further six franchised dealerships and 67 service agents complete a nationwide sales, service and support network.

The company, which was founded in 1948, has produced more than 100,000 taxis from its Coventry factory.

LTI has already supplied TXII vehicles to Mexico, China and Nigeria and has recently taken over the sales and service operation in the US to meet the increasing demand.

Three further export markets have now opened up for LTI, whose black cab can now be seen on the streets of South Africa, while a trip to Russia by a delegation of the Society of Motor Manufacturers means British taxis could also be seen in Moscow.

Matthew Cheyne, LTI sales and marketing director, said: "London has the best taxis in the world. Increasing demand from overseas is not just about the quality and durability, it's to do with buying a British icon."