LEVC TX: The Modern London Black Cab Unveiled

The ubiquitous London Black Cab has long been an enduring symbol of British heritage and efficient urban transport. For decades, it has navigated the intricate streets of the capital, ferrying millions of passengers with unparalleled reliability. Today, this iconic vehicle has undergone a remarkable transformation, embracing the future with electric power while retaining its distinctive charm. We're talking about the London Electric Vehicle Company (LEVC) TX – a modern marvel designed to meet the rigorous demands of contemporary taxi operations.

This comprehensive guide delves into everything you need to know about the LEVC TX, from where you can secure a fantastic new deal to a detailed analysis of its features, helping you decide if this cutting-edge vehicle is the right investment for your taxi business.

Where to Buy Your LEVC TX: Unbeatable Deals Await

For taxi drivers eyeing the future of urban transport, the question of 'where can I buy the London Electric Vehicle Company (LEVC) TX?' is paramount. The good news is that securing your next iconic ride is straightforward, with dedicated specialists ready to assist you.

The LEVC TX is readily available at

The Taxi Centre

, a renowned name in the UK taxi market. They currently stock both the LEVC TX Icon and the LEVC TX Vista models, ensuring you have options to suit your specific requirements and budget. These vehicles come fully equipped, promising an unparalleled electric taxi experience for both you and your valued customers.

The Taxi Centre prides itself on offering new LEVC deals, making the transition to an electrified fleet more accessible than ever. If your operations frequently involve challenging airport runs or catering to larger groups, the LEVC TX, with its ample space for up to six passengers, is an ideal choice. Their sales experts are on hand to guide you through the various specifications available, ensuring the model you choose perfectly aligns with your operational needs and any specific council requirements you might have. Their expertise is invaluable in navigating the nuances of commercial vehicle purchases, providing tailored advice for every taxi driver's unique situation.

The LEVC TX: A Legacy Reimagined for the Modern Era

When one thinks of iconic British vehicles, London’s Black Cab, affectionately known as the Hackney, invariably comes to mind. Its rich history dates back to 1897, when the initial motorised versions were, ironically, electric. While transport has evolved dramatically, the Black Cab remains a quintessential part of British culture.

Manufactured by the London Electric Vehicle Company (LEVC) in Coventry, the hybrid TX model has achieved global recognition, expanding into new markets following Chinese automaker Geely's full ownership acquisition in 2013. Geely's impressive automotive portfolio also includes renowned brands like Volvo and Polestar, a testament to the engineering prowess backing the LEVC TX.

The TX stands as a unique offering in the market. For those committed to operating as a traditional Black Cab driver, there truly isn't another alternative that combines its heritage, design, and purpose-built features. This exclusivity is partly why the UK government continues to offer a substantial £7,500 deduction through the Plug-in Car Grant (PiCG), which the TX currently qualifies for, making it a more attractive proposition for drivers looking to invest in a greener future.

Is the LEVC TX Right for You? A Deep Dive for Taxi Drivers

Deciding whether the LEVC TX is the right vehicle for your taxi business involves weighing its unique advantages against its considerations. It's more than just a car; it's a statement, a tool, and a significant investment.

LEVC TX: Price, Trims, and Government Grants

Despite its long and storied history, the LEVC TX remains unparalleled in its niche. Its unique offering means that if you aspire to operate as a Black Cab driver, there's no direct competitor. This distinctiveness, coupled with its hybrid electric capabilities, allows it to qualify for the UK government's Plug-in Car Grant (PiCG), which offers a healthy £7,500 deduction at the time of writing.

With the grant applied, the LEVC TX can be purchased outright from £57,181 for the entry-level 'Icon' trim, with prices rising to £63,805 for the top-spec 'Vista' trim. It's important to note that the entry-level 'Icon' only qualifies for the grant when the essential £804 Wheelchair Accessibility Pack is added. Without the grant, prices range from £63,360 to £70,788. A detailed breakdown of the models and options is crucial for informed decision-making.

Exterior Elegance: The TX's Enduring Appeal

Despite significant advancements over its predecessors, the LEVC TX remarkably retains many of the iconic features that make it instantly distinguishable from any other vehicle on the road. Its frontal profile is adorned with charmingly shaped headlights and a prominent front grille, while the rear maintains that famous, instantly recognisable look. The side profile, however, is sleeker than ever before, complemented by stylish 17-inch rims that lend it a modern yet retro finish. We find its design supremely stylish, especially when seen in a vibrant colour such as Tupelo Red, and commend LEVC for successfully preserving elements from its rich heritage.

Step Inside: The LEVC TX Interior Experience

The cabin of the LEVC TX is surprisingly lavish, especially for the driver. You'll immediately notice many similarities with Volvo and Polestar vehicles, a clear indication of Geely Motors' strategy of sharing parts across its various brands. Elements such as the steering wheel, control stalks, physical buttons, and even the interface of the 9-inch display could easily be transplanted into a Volvo without anyone noticing the difference. However, unlike modern Volvos, the LEVC TX’s rather limited infotainment system does not support Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. While experienced taxi drivers undoubtedly know the streets intimately, this omission still feels like a missed opportunity for enhanced connectivity and convenience. If satellite navigation is a necessity, you’ll need to opt for the Vista Comfort Plus trim or add it as an additional option.

Regardless of the trim or option package you choose, a fully digitalised instrument cluster is fitted as standard on all models. While its customisation options are somewhat limited, it provides all key information in a clear, comprehensive, and cohesive manner. It is, however, a minor disappointment that there is no Head-Up Display (HUD), a feature we appreciate in certain Volvo or Polestar vehicles for its contribution to driver safety.

On a more positive note, the stock 80-Watt audio system, comprising four 20-Watt drivers (two on each door) within the front of the cabin, delivers surprisingly stellar audio reproduction for the driver. Bluetooth is the sole means of connecting a smartphone to the infotainment system, though it only supports the lower-quality SBC codec. In the rear, the speakers are exclusively used for the intercom service, ensuring clear communication with passengers.

Unrivalled Comfort and Accessibility for All

Speaking of the rear cabin, it is exceptionally spacious and designed to comfortably accommodate up to six passengers. Headroom and legroom are spectacular, ensuring that even tall individuals can enter or exit the vehicle with minimal discomfort. Indeed, accessibility is one of the TX’s strongest suits. Rear climate controls and intercom buttons allow passengers to tailor their environment, while the vibrant yellow handlebars and wide-opening doors make it remarkably convenient for passengers of all types and mobility levels.

A standout feature is the swivel chair, fitted as standard on all models, which greatly assists in passenger loading and unloading. Furthermore, the retractable wheelchair ramp with rails, standard on all Vista trims, is a significant improvement over predecessors. It’s easily deployable by the driver, ensuring swift transitions without causing delays. In the Vista Comfort and Comfort Plus trims, passengers are treated to a large glass roof, offering a beautiful view of their surroundings – an ideal feature for tourists exploring the city.

However, the experience isn't entirely without its drawbacks. The cabin insulation, unfortunately, isn't as robust as one might hope. It can become quite loud when traversing at higher speeds, and the vehicle’s large nature does incur a degree of resonance. While it’s certainly not as creaky or jolty as its predecessors, better sound dampening would have elevated the passenger experience further.

Equally, one might expect a higher level of premium comforts for the driver. The front seat only becomes electric and heated in the Vista Comfort or higher trims; for a vehicle of this calibre, these features might reasonably be expected as standard across all variants. It’s also rather surprising to find no ventilated driver’s seat or heated steering wheel – baffling omissions given that many consumer vehicles offer these features readily.

The driver’s seat itself is positioned quite high due to the vehicle’s battery design, which means that entering and exiting the TX might prove challenging for larger or taller individuals – a common complaint noted from some owners. We also found the driver’s headrest to be rather stiff and uncomfortable on longer journeys.

Practicality on the Go: LEVC TX Storage Solutions

When it comes to storing your own valuables or luggage as a driver, you'll find the options somewhat limited. There's storage within the front door bins, a small mesh compartment on the passenger side, and an area within the centre armrest, which also conveniently houses two USB ports for charging devices. Should you require an overhead compartment, a 12V socket, or an accessory rail, these are typically features found in the more expensive trims or as part of additional optional packs.

The boot space is modest, primarily designed to accommodate a backpack and your charging cables. Storage capacity is further constrained in the Vista trims and above due to the inclusion of a full-size spare wheel. Given the TX’s substantial overall size, one might reasonably expect more dedicated storage space for the driver.

Thankfully, passengers typically won't encounter storage issues, as there's a generous 440 litres of space available at the front, in the area where a conventional front passenger seat would normally reside. Within this area, you’ll also find a small storage compartment cleverly built into the floor, specifically designed to store wheelchair safety harnesses, ensuring they are always on hand when needed.

Power and Efficiency: Driving the LEVC TX

The LEVC TX's powertrain is a sophisticated blend of traditional and electric technology, specifically designed for efficiency in urban environments. It comprises a front-mounted 3-cylinder, 12-valve, 1.5-litre turbo-charged engine, a 31 kWh battery pack, and an electric motor. Combined, this configuration outputs 110 kW (147 hp) of power and 250 Nm of torque. Crucially, the engine is not directly connected to the drivetrain but serves solely as a range extender. This means the TX is always driven by electric power, with the battery pack and motor powering the rear-wheel drive (RWD) system.

Given the vehicle's primary purpose, most drivers won't be concerned with blistering acceleration. Nonetheless, using Racelogic’s VBOX Sport, the TX was tested from 0-20mph in 3.48s, 0-30mph in 5.4s, and 0-60mph in 12.52s. Its top speed is limited to 80mph. While not remarkable figures for a performance vehicle, these speeds are more than sufficient for the demands of taxi driving.

What truly stands out, however, is the driving comfort. The soft suspension setup, while not ideal for winding country roads, provides a wonderfully cushiony experience within the city for both the driver and passengers. Navigating speed bumps, potholes, or other road anomalies becomes a real breeze.

Even better, the TX’s manoeuvrability is excellent. Thanks to its electro-hydraulic steering system, the vehicle’s turning circle is an impressively low 8.45 metres, and it's also very easy to steer due to its lightweight feel. While this exceptional turning circle won't surprise seasoned taxi drivers accustomed to the Black Cab's legendary agility, it's still a fantastic feature that enhances urban driving efficiency.

While handling is certainly impressive, the vehicle's key selling point is undoubtedly its fuel efficiency. This is at the forefront of why many should consider switching to the electrified model. In mixed driving tests, encompassing motorway, country roads, and city routes, the TX achieved a remarkable 132-150 MPG. This was the result of attaining 45-50 miles of pure electric range from its 31 kWh battery pack, with the remaining 10-20 miles covered by the engine consuming petrol from the 36-litre fuel tank. For those operating solely within the city, an even greater electric range of 50-60 miles can be expected, further bolstering the vehicle’s impressive MPG figures.

Within the city, drivers can further benefit from increased efficiency through the use of regenerative braking. By modulating the physical brake pedal, energy can be recouped back into the battery pack. For a greater degree of deceleration upon lifting off the accelerator and more energy harvesting, drivers can select Level 1 or 2 regenerative braking, with Level 2 being the stronger of the two. However, even in the most aggressive mode, the vehicle cannot be driven with a single pedal to a complete standstill – a feature many modern EVs offer and one that would have been a welcome addition.

Charging Your LEVC TX

When it comes to replenishing the battery, the LEVC TX offers versatile and rapid charging options. It features both CCS and CHAdeMO ports at the front, both supporting up to 50 kW of input. This means a 0-80% charge can be achieved in a mere 25 minutes, with a full 0-100% charge taking just 30 minutes. LEVC’s inclusion of the less common CHAdeMO port is particularly handy, as it allows taxi drivers to utilise an alternative charging method, potentially avoiding competition with consumer EVs that might be hogging the more prevalent CCS standard at charge points.

For those with access to a DC rapid charger, the TX can be optionally fitted with a 22 kW onboard charger, enabling a 0-80% charge in just one hour, or 0-100% in one hour and fifteen minutes. Should you opt not to splurge on this upgrade, the taxi still comes with an 11 kW onboard charger as standard. Unsurprisingly, this takes almost double the amount of time to replenish the 31 kWh battery pack – approximately 1 hour 50 minutes for 0-80% and 2 hours 20 minutes for 0-100%, respectively.

If you don’t have access to a three-phase power supply, charging with a 7kW wallbox will take around 3 hours to reach 80% or 3 hours 45 minutes to 100%. Using a standard 3-pin wall socket, expect approximately 8 hours for 80% and 10 hours for a full charge. It's worth noting that the home charger adapter isn't included with the vehicle purchase and is an additional extra.

Safety First? Assessing the LEVC TX's Protection Features

Given the cabin’s similarities to Volvo vehicles, one might reasonably expect this rather expensive taxi to feature a plethora of advanced safety systems. Unfortunately, that’s not entirely the case. As standard, the LEVC TX includes cruise control with a speed limiter, lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition, and emergency brake assist. However, the absence of adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and steering assist is quite disappointing for a modern vehicle. It's also baffling that blind spot monitoring is not included, nor is it even available as an option – a particularly handy feature when driving in busy city environments and one that would surely be appreciated by taxi drivers.

Thankfully, checking your blind spot is relatively easy due to the large side windows, and the frontal view is excellent. The same cannot be said for the rear, however. Despite a large rear window, it can be challenging to check your surroundings, especially when transporting passengers. Furthermore, a rear wiper only features in the Vista Comfort trims or above.

To assist with reversing, LEVC includes rear parking sensors in the Vista trims. Should you desire front parking sensors and a rearview camera, you’ll need to invest in the Vista Comfort Plus or add them as an option in the cheaper models – a surprising omission given the vehicle’s cost. Equally, the TX does not offer 360-degree or wheel cameras, which could have helped prevent incurring damage to the rims and tyres in tight urban spaces.

Comparing the LEVC TX Models: Icon vs. Vista

Understanding the differences between the LEVC TX Icon and Vista trims is crucial for making an informed purchase decision. While both offer the core LEVC experience, the Vista trims introduce additional features, particularly in terms of comfort, convenience, and technology.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the LEVC TX

Here are some common questions prospective LEVC TX owners and taxi drivers often ask:

How much does an LEVC TX cost?

The LEVC TX starts from £57,181 for the Icon trim (with the necessary Wheelchair Accessibility Pack to qualify for the PiCG grant). Prices can go up to £63,805 for the top-spec Vista Comfort Plus trim with the grant applied. Without the grant, prices range from £63,360 to £70,788.

Does the LEVC TX qualify for any grants?

Yes, at the time of writing, the LEVC TX qualifies for the UK government's Plug-in Car Grant (PiCG), which offers a £7,500 deduction. For the entry-level Icon trim, the £804 Wheelchair Accessibility Pack must be added to qualify for this grant.

What is the fuel efficiency of the LEVC TX?

The LEVC TX boasts impressive fuel efficiency due to its hybrid powertrain. In mixed driving tests, it achieved between 132-150 MPG. In city driving, it can achieve 50-60 miles of pure electric range, further enhancing its efficiency.

How long does it take to charge the LEVC TX?

Charging times vary depending on the charger type. Using a 50 kW DC rapid charger, it can go from 0-80% in just 25 minutes, and 0-100% in 30 minutes. With the optional 22 kW onboard charger, it takes 1 hour for 0-80% and 1 hour 15 minutes for 0-100%. The standard 11 kW onboard charger takes longer, at 1 hour 50 minutes for 0-80% and 2 hours 20 minutes for 0-100%. A 7kW wallbox takes 3 hours for 80% and 3 hours 45 minutes for 100%. A standard 3-pin wall socket takes 8 hours for 80% and 10 hours for 100%.

Is the LEVC TX comfortable for passengers?

Yes, the rear cabin is extremely spacious and can accommodate up to six passengers with spectacular headroom and legroom. It features rear climate controls, intercom buttons, yellow handlebars, and wide-opening doors for excellent accessibility. Higher trims also offer a large glass roof for an enhanced passenger experience.

What is the turning circle of the LEVC TX?

The LEVC TX has an excellent turning circle of just 8.45 metres, making it incredibly manoeuvrable in tight urban spaces, a crucial feature for taxi operations.

Does the LEVC TX have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto?

No, the LEVC TX's infotainment system does not support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Satellite navigation is an optional extra or standard on the top-spec Vista Comfort Plus trim.

Conclusion: The LEVC TX – A Hybrid of Heritage and Innovation

On the whole, the LEVC TX represents a significant leap forward for the iconic British Black Cab. It is an efficient and practical hybrid taxi that successfully merges its instantly recognisable design with modern powertrain technology. For those who aspire to operate as a traditional black cabbie, the TX stands in a class of its own, with no real direct competition.

However, it is far from perfect. Its steep asking price remains a significant hurdle for some, and the limited storage space for the driver can be a minor inconvenience. Furthermore, the disappointing number of driver assistance features and a somewhat lacklustre integration of modern technology systems, particularly the absence of common smartphone mirroring, are areas where the TX could undoubtedly improve. Despite these considerations, the LEVC TX offers a compelling package for the discerning taxi driver, balancing heritage, passenger comfort, and crucial urban efficiency.

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