Uber has launched legal action against new rules in London such as written English tests for its drivers, in the latest battle between regulators and the car ride app which has faced bans and protests worldwide.

Following months of demonstrations from drivers of the capital's famous black cabs, public body Transport for London launched a consultation last year on a raft of proposals to restrict the way private hire firms operate.

In January, it decided against imposing a five-minute wait time for rides on customers of services such as Uber, which allows customers to book and pay for a taxi on their smartphones, but said that it would bring in measures including compulsory language tests.

In recent months, the regulator has provided more detail including that drivers should have English reading and writing skills, that private hire firms must operate a London call center and drivers must have insurance for vehicles even when they are not being used as private hire cars.

Rapidly expanding tech start-ups are having to navigate regulations and opposition from some unions and existing service providers around the world.

Earlier this week, food delivery firm Deliveroo said British riders could opt out of its new payment system after it became the latest firm to face criticism for the employment terms given to its staff.

Uber, whose investors include Goldman Sachs and Alphabet Inc unit Google and is valued at $62.5 billion, said it backed drivers being able to speak English but the proposed tests were too rigorous.

The transport authority said it would defend its proposals in court.

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