Private hire firm Addison Lee has purchased 550 new Ford Galaxy people carriers, worth £17m, as it renews 12% of its fleet.

Addison Lee has renewed over 12% of its entire 5,000 plus vehicle fleet with new Ford Galaxys

The new Galaxys are said to represent this year’s single largest investment in passenger cars in London and join the firm’s fleet of over 5,000 vehicles.

The investment forms part of Addison Lee’s growth strategy which has seen several international partnerships and acquisitions – including Tristar earlier this year, and comes as it looks to target Uber’s growing stronghold in the UK and Europe.

The vehicles come in Zetec specification and are fitted with smart sensors for better parking and collision safety. They will also be fitted with the latest Addison Lee Driver App that uses real time traffic information to find the fastest route and employs data capture technology to monitors car telemetry. All vehicles include free WiFi and phone charging.

Catherine Faiers, chief operating officer, Addison Lee, said: “This £17m investment shows just how committed we are to investing in a quality experience for all of our passengers. We are the leading provider of quality car services and will always strive for the best for our customers. The new cars will provide this with increased safety, comfort and efficiency.”