24/11/2024
The quintessential London Black Cab, an enduring symbol of British heritage and urban transport, is undergoing a profound transformation. Far from merely serving the bustling streets of the capital, this iconic vehicle is now leading the charge in the global shift towards sustainable mobility. Under the stewardship of LEVC (London Electric Vehicle Company), a subsidiary of the automotive giant Geely, the electric London Taxi – officially known as the TX – is not only revolutionising the taxi industry but also paving the way for a new era of zero-emission commercial vehicles. This strategic electrification marks a pivotal moment, taking the beloved black cab from a local legend to a global pioneer.
Since its relaunch as an electric vehicle with a range extender in 2018, the LEVC TX has captured significant attention, not just in its home market of the UK but across the continent and beyond. This article delves into LEVC's ambitious plans for growth, examining its expanding dealer network, the impressive performance of the TX model, and the exciting introduction of a new electric delivery van that promises to redefine urban logistics.
The Rebirth of an Icon: The LEVC TX
The LEVC TX is more than just a taxi; it's a testament to engineering ingenuity, blending the timeless appeal of the London Black Cab with cutting-edge electric vehicle technology. Designed from the ground up to be a purpose-built electric taxi, it retains the classic silhouette while incorporating modern comforts and environmental responsibility. The vehicle comfortably accommodates six passengers in addition to the chauffeur, offering a spacious and accessible interior that has long been a hallmark of London taxis. Its unique design, which includes a tight turning circle, makes it perfectly suited for navigating congested city streets with unparalleled ease.
At the heart of the TX's appeal is its innovative powertrain. It features an electric motor, delivering 110 kW (150 PS) of peak power and a robust 255 Newton-metres of torque, ensuring smooth and responsive acceleration. Crucially for commercial operators, the TX is equipped with a 1.5-litre three-cylinder Volvo engine that acts as a range extender. This intelligent system charges the battery on the go, effectively eliminating range anxiety – a common concern for electric vehicle adoption, especially in high-mileage commercial applications. This dual-power system allows the TX to operate purely on electricity for approximately 130 kilometres, making it ideal for most urban journeys, while the range extender extends its total reach to an impressive 600 kilometres. This hybrid approach ensures that drivers can complete long shifts without interruption, combining the benefits of zero-emission driving with the practicalities of extended range.
Global Drive: LEVC's Strategic Expansion
LEVC's vision extends far beyond the UK. The company is actively pursuing a strategy of Europe-wide and indeed global expansion, capitalising on the growing demand for emissions-free mobility services. Since its 2018 relaunch, approximately 3,800 units of the TX have been sold, with a significant 2,500 of those sales occurring in the last year alone. While the UK still accounts for a substantial 87 percent of sales, around 500 models have been exported, demonstrating a burgeoning international appetite for the electric London Taxi.
Currently, the LEVC TX is active in ten markets worldwide, with Germany, France, and the Netherlands identified as key export territories. The company is particularly enthusiastic about its performance in Germany, where demand for zero-emission vehicles has been notably strong. To facilitate this international growth, LEVC has established a sales office in Frankfurt to handle enquiries from EU countries without a dedicated distribution network. For enquiries from outside Europe, the LEVC headquarters in Coventry directly manages operations, ensuring a cohesive global approach to sales and service.
The German Success Story and Dealer Network Growth
Germany has emerged as a significant market for the LEVC TX. The company has reported "strong" sales figures in the country, underscoring the increasing willingness of German operators to embrace electric commercial transport. Currently, four dealerships in Germany distribute the TX model:
- Auto Amthauer in Hanau
- Autohaus München (part of the Eder Group)
- Autohaus Link in Krefeld (a Tölke & Fischer location)
- The Krüll Group in Hamburg
It's noteworthy that all these dealerships are also Volvo partners. This synergy between LEVC and its sister company, Volvo (both part of the Geely group), has been instrumental in enabling the rapid growth of the LEVC network. This collaboration provides established infrastructure, technical expertise, and a trusted brand association, which significantly accelerates market penetration. LEVC is keen to build on this momentum, with plans to bring additional dealerships online in Germany throughout the current year. While the Volvo partnership has been key, LEVC remains open to collaborations with independent partners outside the Volvo network, recognising the value of diverse distribution channels to maximise reach.
The Future of Urban Logistics: The LEVC VN5 Electric Van
Building on the success and proven technology of the TX taxi, LEVC is set to introduce a second product: an electric delivery van. This new model, expected to be unveiled at the Commercial Vehicle Show in Birmingham at the end of April, will utilise the identical and robust drivetrain technology found in the TX. The LEVC electric van, tentatively named the VN5, is constructed upon the lightweight aluminium structure of the TX electric taxi, ensuring durability, efficiency, and a familiar platform for maintenance and repair.
Prototypes of the VN5 are currently undergoing rigorous testing, including homologation and crash tests, to ensure they meet the highest standards of safety and performance. Production of the electric van is slated to commence in the fourth quarter of 2020. LEVC CEO Jörg Hofmann has confirmed that preparations are precisely on schedule.
This new electric van is strategically designed to meet the escalating demand for emissions-free commercial vehicles, particularly those capable of handling a one-tonne payload. It aims to offer a compelling alternative to traditional diesel-powered vans, especially for urban logistics. Like the TX, the VN5 will feature the same 600-kilometre range with its range extender, making it an ideal solution for bridging the gap between out-of-town distribution centres and inner-city, last-mile deliveries right to the customer's doorstep. This innovation promises to transform how goods are transported in urban environments, contributing significantly to cleaner air and reduced noise pollution.
Cost, Accessibility, and the Road Ahead
The LEVC TX currently carries a price tag of approximately €60,000. While this might seem a significant investment upfront, it's crucial to consider the long-term operational savings associated with electric vehicles, including lower fuel costs, reduced maintenance, and potential government incentives for zero-emission vehicles. For commercial operators, the reliability and extended range offered by the TX, coupled with its environmental benefits, present a strong value proposition.
As the global automotive industry continues its pivot towards sustainability, LEVC is well-positioned at the forefront of this movement. The company's focus on purpose-built electric vehicles with practical range solutions addresses key concerns for commercial fleet operators. The expansion of its dealer network and the introduction of complementary products like the electric van underscore a comprehensive strategy to dominate the urban commercial vehicle market. The iconic London Black Cab, in its electric guise, is not just a mode of transport; it's a symbol of a cleaner, more efficient, and sustainable future for cities worldwide.
LEVC TX Specifications Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | Electric Taxi with Range Extender |
| Passenger Capacity | 6 (+ Chauffeur) |
| Electric Motor Power | 110 kW (150 PS) |
| Torque | 255 Newton-metres |
| Range Extender | 1.5-litre Volvo 3-Cylinder Engine |
| Electric-Only Range | Approx. 130 km |
| Total Range (with Range Extender) | Approx. 600 km |
| Price (approx.) | €60,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the LEVC TX and what makes it unique?
The LEVC TX is the modern, electric version of the iconic London Black Cab, manufactured by LEVC (London Electric Vehicle Company). Its uniqueness lies in its purpose-built design for taxi services, offering seating for six passengers, wheelchair accessibility, and a tight turning circle. Crucially, it combines an electric powertrain with a petrol range extender, allowing for both zero-emission urban driving and extended range for longer journeys.
How does the range extender work in the LEVC TX?
The LEVC TX is primarily an electric vehicle. It uses a 1.5-litre three-cylinder Volvo petrol engine as a 'range extender'. This engine does not directly power the wheels but acts as a generator, recharging the battery when its charge level drops. This system ensures that the vehicle can continue operating even after its all-electric range is depleted, providing peace of mind for commercial operators who cannot afford downtime for charging.
What is the electric-only range of the TX, and how far can it travel in total?
The LEVC TX can travel approximately 130 kilometres (around 80 miles) on electric power alone. With the assistance of its range extender, the total combined range extends to an impressive 600 kilometres (approximately 370 miles), making it highly versatile for various commercial driving needs.
Is the LEVC TX available outside the UK?
Yes, the LEVC TX is available in several international markets. Beyond the UK, key markets include Germany, France, and the Netherlands. LEVC is actively expanding its global presence, with a sales office in Frankfurt handling EU enquiries and its Coventry headquarters managing non-European enquiries.
What is the new LEVC electric van designed for?
The new LEVC electric van, known as the VN5, is designed for urban logistics and last-mile delivery services. It shares its lightweight aluminium structure and electric powertrain with the TX taxi, offering a 1-tonne payload capacity. Its purpose is to provide a clean, efficient, and reliable solution for businesses needing to transport goods within cities, helping to reduce emissions and noise pollution.
How much does an LEVC TX cost?
The LEVC TX currently costs approximately €60,000. While this is the upfront purchase price, potential long-term savings from lower running costs (electricity vs. petrol/diesel), reduced maintenance, and possible government incentives for electric vehicles should also be considered by prospective buyers.
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