Taxiapp UK, the non-for-profit app run by London’s black cab drivers, has launched a new and improved app following a surge of interest in its ethical business model.

The app is the first of its kind, with the stated intention of “providing a sustainable and socially invested alternative to the widely scrutinised transport platforms that continue to shake the foundations of London’s transport industry”.

The new app, funded and run by a co-operative of drivers, aims to modernise the black cab sector. It is fully accredited by Transport for London and uses black cab drivers fully versed in ‘The Knowledge’, the famous London taxi test which calls on them to commit 25,000 of the capital’s streets to memory.

It promises a service that is “reliable, efficient and eliminates surge pricing with all rides by the meter”.

Related: TaxiApp – London’s co-op rival to Uber

Founder member Sean Paul Day said: “This a crucial time for tech starts-up like Taxiapp, who continue to prove more self-sufficient than established alternatives. Taxiapp UK has been able to survey the horizon and grow in a more sustainable way that puts both drivers and passengers at the forefront.”

The new app, free to download now, offers improved services including seamless payments by card, cash or the in-app wallet along with greater flexibility. The team says it is “the most ethical London transport app on the market”. with fully licensed drivers, and co-operative, non-profit organisation.

The co-op system means drivers can deal better with changes to bookings because it allows them to discuss their pick-ups and work with one another to ensure passengers receive the taxi that best fits their needs.

The app is free to download for all Apple and Android users wanting to support black cab drivers, with all fares paid by the mete and the cost dictated by the distance and time of day.