London's Black Cabs: The TX4 & Electric Revolution

The iconic London black cab is more than just a vehicle; it's a symbol of the city itself, instantly recognisable worldwide. For decades, these robust and distinctive taxis have ferried millions of passengers across the capital's bustling streets, becoming an integral part of the British urban landscape. But who exactly is behind the creation of these legendary machines, and how have they evolved to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world? This article delves into the fascinating history of their manufacturers, from the traditional builders of the classic TX4 to the innovative minds behind today's cutting-edge electric models, exploring the challenges, triumphs, and pivotal shifts that have shaped their journey.

The Reign of the TX4: A British Icon's Origins

For many years, the quintessential London black cab was synonymous with the TX4 model, a vehicle produced by The London Taxi Company, which was a part of Manganese Bronze Holdings. This company had a long-standing heritage in crafting these purpose-built taxis, known for their distinctive design, robust construction, and legendary turning circle, a vital feature for navigating London's tight streets. The TX4 continued this legacy, becoming the workhorse of the London taxi fleet.

However, the story of the TX4 is not solely British. In a significant strategic move, The London Taxi Company entered into a joint venture with the Chinese automotive giant, Geely Automobile. This partnership, known as Shanghai LTI (SLTI), was formed in January 2007 with the explicit aim of manufacturing the TX4 in China. Production commenced in July 2008, expanding the reach of the black cab's manufacturing. By August 2010, Geely had begun supplying semi-knocked-down (SKD) TX4 kits from Shanghai to the UK for final assembly, demonstrating a globalised approach to production. In China, Geely marketed the TX4 under its 'Englon' brand, a name phonetically similar to 'England', further cementing its connection to the cab's origins. This collaboration also saw the development of new variations, such as the TXN, conceived with a more contemporary and youthful appeal, and even a concept version for private family use, the Englon SC7-RV, showcasing the platform's versatility beyond its traditional taxi role.

Innovation on Wheels: The Hydrogen TX4 Experiment

Even before the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, there was a keen interest in exploring alternative, cleaner fuel sources for London's taxis. A notable initiative was the HyTEC (Hydrogen Transport for European Cities) project, which saw the development and deployment of a pioneering fleet of hydrogen fuel cell powered TX4 taxis. These advanced vehicles were the result of a collaborative effort between the UK power technology company Intelligent Energy and The London Taxi Company, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to sustainable urban transport.

These hydrogen-powered cabs proved their mettle, collectively driving 2,500 miles (4,000 km) and being refuelled at London's second hydrogen fuelling station located at Heathrow Airport. The first phase of the HyTEC project coincided with the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, where the fuel cell electric taxis proudly transported 40 visiting dignitaries and VIP guests of the Greater London Authority. High-profile individuals, including Hollywood star Arnold Schwarzenegger and British acting legend Barbara Windsor, experienced the cutting-edge technology firsthand, with some even taking multiple journeys. Key figures from the GLA, such as Mayor Boris Johnson, also had the opportunity to ride in these innovative cabs. The prototypes, developed with the assistance of Lotus Engineering, boasted an impressive range of 250 miles (400 km) and a top speed exceeding 80 miles per hour (130 km/h), even achieving 95 miles per hour (153 km/h) on the Millbrook test track. Crucially, their hydrogen tanks could be refilled in a mere five minutes, addressing a major concern for taxi drivers regarding refuelling times. This ambitious project received substantial funding, with £5.5 million contributed by the Technology Strategy Board, underscoring the commitment to exploring zero-emission transport solutions.

Turbulence and Transformation: Challenges Faced by the TX4

Despite its iconic status and ongoing development, the TX4's journey was not without significant challenges. In September 2008, a concerning spate of approximately fifteen engine fires within a three-month period led to a partial recall of the TX4 fleet. This serious safety issue prompted the Public Carriage Office (later renamed LTPH – London Taxis and Private Hire) to mandate safety checks for all affected models, particularly those with a '56' registration plate, threatening the revocation of carriage licences for non-compliance. The news garnered significant media attention, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

Further turmoil struck in February 2012 with the discovery of a steering fault in new steering boxes introduced to TX4 models produced at the Coventry factory. This critical defect forced Manganese Bronze, the manufacturer, to recall 400 black cabs and suspend new sales. The company openly acknowledged that this recall and sales suspension would have a 'material and detrimental' impact on its cashflow, adding to existing woes which included mounting losses and a £4 million accounting error. Manganese Bronze immediately began working with its Chinese partner, Geely (already a 20% shareholder at the time), to find a technical solution. However, the financial uncertainty loomed large, leading to the suspension of trading in the company's shares. Having not reported any profits since 2008, the company's financial fragility was evident.

The culmination of these difficulties led to a dramatic turning point. On 30 October 2012, Manganese Bronze Holdings entered administration. The following day, PricewaterhouseCoopers, the appointed administrators, announced significant job losses, shedding 156 positions at the Coventry head office and production line, along with other roles at various dealer outlets. This event marked the end of an era for Manganese Bronze. However, from the ashes rose a new chapter: in September 2013, production at the Coventry site resumed. This revival was possible because the assets formerly owned by Manganese Bronze Holdings had been acquired by a new entity, The London Taxi Corporation, which was now a wholly-owned subsidiary of Geely of China. This acquisition solidified Geely's pivotal role in the future of London's black cabs, transforming the landscape of their manufacturing.

A New Era: The Birth of LEVC and Electric Cabs

The acquisition of Manganese Bronze's assets by Geely marked the dawn of a new era for London's black cabs, leading to the establishment of London EV Company Limited (LEVC). Formerly known as The London Taxi Corporation Limited, LEVC is now a British automotive manufacturer headquartered at Ansty Park near Coventry, England. Crucially, it operates as a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Chinese automaker Geely, confirming Geely's complete control over the production of London's famous black taxicabs.

Geely's journey into British taxicab production began years before the full acquisition. Their involvement dates back to 2006 when they first partnered with The London Taxi Company and its parent, Manganese Bronze Holdings, to create a China-based taxicab manufacturing joint venture. This initial collaboration laid the groundwork for future developments. As early as 2008, Geely was already exploring the potential of converting London's traditional black cabs into electric-powered vehicles, showcasing their forward-thinking vision for sustainable urban transport. In 2009, Geely further deepened its commitment by acquiring shares in Manganese Bronze Holdings, gradually increasing its stake and influence.

When Manganese Bronze Holdings faced administration in 2012 due to a lack of funding, Geely stepped in as the rescuer. In 2013, they successfully acquired a significant portion of the business, subsequently forming their dedicated taxicab production company, The London Taxi Corporation Limited, which would later become LEVC. The joint venture in Shanghai, Shanghai LTI Automobile Components Co Ltd, continued its role, manufacturing the licensed London Black Cab, the TX4, in Fengjing, Shanghai, and exporting semi-complete knock-down kits for final assembly back in the UK, maintaining a degree of international collaboration in the supply chain.

Powering the Future: The LEVC TX and Beyond

With Geely's full backing and substantial investment, LEVC embarked on an ambitious mission to develop a new generation of taxis. From 2014 onwards, Geely poured an impressive £480 million into LEVC for this development. Much of the engineering prowess for these new vehicles came from China Euro Vehicle Technology, a Geely subsidiary based in Gothenburg, Sweden, highlighting a truly international collaborative effort in design and innovation. This significant investment culminated in the unveiling of the revolutionary LEVC TX range-extended electric taxi in 2017. This model represented a monumental leap forward, moving away from traditional diesel engines towards a more environmentally friendly and efficient powertrain, designed specifically for the rigorous demands of urban taxi service.

To support the production of these advanced vehicles, LEVC announced in March 2015 plans for a state-of-the-art new factory and offices at Ansty Park, northeast of Coventry. This massive undertaking, costing £90 million, was projected to create 1,000 jobs, signalling a renewed commitment to British manufacturing and innovation. Geely's aspirations were high, with a goal to manufacture an ambitious 36,000 vehicles per annum, far exceeding previous production capacities and indicating a vision for global expansion beyond just the London market.

The LEVC TX quickly became a success, not only in London but also in other major cities globally that sought to electrify their taxi fleets. The company's vision, however, extends beyond just taxis. In 2017, alongside the launch of the TX, LEVC also announced its intentions to begin production of electric commercial vehicles, leveraging its expertise in electric powertrain technology and urban mobility solutions. This strategic diversification positions LEVC as a broader player in the electric vehicle market, addressing the growing demand for sustainable commercial transport. More recently, in February 2025, LEVC demonstrated its integration within the broader Geely ecosystem by being incorporated into the Geely Galaxy dealership network in the Chinese market. This move saw its sole model in China, the LEVC L380, rebranded as the Geely Galaxy LEVC L380, further solidifying the synergy between LEVC and its parent company's global brand strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who originally manufactured the TX4 taxis?

The TX4 taxis were originally manufactured by The London Taxi Company, which was part of Manganese Bronze Holdings. This British company had a long history of producing London's black cabs.

How did Geely become involved with London taxis?

Geely's involvement began in 2006 through a joint venture, Shanghai LTI, for manufacturing the TX4 in China. They progressively increased their stake in Manganese Bronze Holdings and, following Manganese Bronze's administration in 2012, Geely acquired its assets, forming The London Taxi Corporation Limited (now LEVC), becoming the sole owner and manufacturer of London's black cabs.

What is the LEVC TX?

The LEVC TX is the current range-extended electric taxi model produced by London EV Company Limited (LEVC), a subsidiary of Geely. It represents a significant technological advancement from the diesel TX4, offering reduced emissions and improved efficiency for urban transport, combining an electric powertrain with a small petrol generator for extended range.

Were there any significant issues with the TX4?

Yes, the TX4 faced significant challenges, including a partial recall in 2008 due to engine fires and a more widespread recall in 2012 concerning a steering fault. These issues, combined with financial difficulties, ultimately led to Manganese Bronze Holdings entering administration before Geely's acquisition.

The journey of London's black cabs is a testament to evolution, resilience, and adaptability. From the traditional, robust diesel TX4, initially a purely British endeavour that later embraced international manufacturing partnerships, to the pioneering hydrogen fuel cell experiments, and finally to the widespread adoption of the advanced electric LEVC TX, these vehicles reflect the changing demands of urban transport and environmental consciousness. The pivotal intervention of Geely transformed the manufacturing landscape, injecting vital investment and global expertise, ensuring the continued legacy and innovation of these iconic vehicles. As London looks towards an even greener future, the black cab, now an electric symbol of the city, continues to lead the way, promising cleaner air and a quieter ride for generations to come, embodying a remarkable blend of tradition and cutting-edge technology.

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