London's black cab drivers agree to go on Uber

STORY: They have been the best of enemies.

But Uber and London’s famous black cabs have decided to get along instead.

The iconic taxis will be available to book on the ride hailing app from early next year.

That marks a dramatic turnaround in the relationship.

Recent years saw the black taxi drivers block streets in protest at the app.

They felt Uber’s technology and pricing threatened their livelihoods.

The drivers also staged an unsuccessful legal challenge against the app’s London operating license.

Black cabs are the only vehicles allowed to pick up passengers on the street in the city.

Their drivers have to pass a test called “the Knowledge”, which requires them to memorize thousands of routes.

Now the new deal will see them offered trips at a pre-determined price range.

They’ll be free to accept or decline.

Uber won’t charge any commission for the first six months of the agreement.

The first black cab driver to sign up said it was simply about getting more bookings, and earning more money.