Five London taxis are at work in Las Vegas and next year should see the introduction of Scottish-built double-decker buses into the city. The distinctive shapes of both methods of transport may become as familiar in Las Vegas as they are in London.

The Desert Cab Company has been using the taxis since September, as the cost of the vehicles has come down from previous levels. Modifications, such as changing the right-hand drive and adding better air-conditioning, have been made and the customary black of the cabs has been altered for advertising purposes. The company claims that most passengers love riding in them as the cabs have plenty of legroom and a novelty appeal. Some people even stop to have their photograph taken with the cabs. The drivers also like them, as the passengers tend to tip more than they would in an ordinary cab.

The double-decker buses are invading American territory for a more practical reason. However, they won’t be the familiar red buses seen around London. The 50 double-deckers ordered by the Citizens Area Transit can seat 81 passengers and carry as many as 98. The present stretch vehicles can only seat 60 and carry 90, and their 60ft length is a problem on the crowded Las Vegas Boulevard. The double-deckers only measure 41ft and will give passengers the added pleasure of a better view of the lights along the Strip. The buses should be delivered next year and the Regional Transportation Commission, which oversees transport in Clark County, expects that additional bus routes in congested areas of Las Vegas may soon see the tall buses. Both locals and visitors to Las Vegas could soon be finding themselves transported into a little piece of Britain, whether hailing a cab or jumping on a bus.

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