Online car-sharing service Uber has been banned by a court in Germany following a ruling in a court in Frankfurt.

According to the ruling, the firm does not have the necessary legal permits to operate. Company bosses could face a fine if they fail to discontinue the service.

However, Uber has vowed to continue operating its app, which enables ordinary drivers to transport passengers using their cars, in spite of the ruling. 

"You cannot put the brakes on progress. Uber will continue its operations and will offer UberPop ridesharing services via its app throughout Germany," an Uber spokesperson said.

The Taxi Deutschland Servicegesellschaft company brought the case against the California-based firm, arguing that passengers' safety could be compromised by the app.

Taxi operators around the world have staged protests against Uber, arguing that it constitutes unfair competition. Fares calculated using the app are often cheaper than those offered by taxi companies.