LEVC (London EV Company) has launched the world’s most advanced electric taxi, the TX, in Berlin – and has announced its intention to partner with Volvo Germany to sell and distribute the vehicle.
The TX combines cutting-edge technology with classic British design. The vehicle is intended to play a role in Germany’s energy transition, helping operators move away from conventional fossil fuel powered vehicles, reducing their carbon footprint and improving air quality in cities across Germany.
All LEVC products include eCity technology – an advanced battery electric powertrain with a small back-up petrol generator. Applied to the all-new TX, the technology allows for a range of 640km (377 miles) including up to 130km (80 miles) pure electric range.
Launching a new brand in a new country requires a trusted partner, and for that reason, LEVC said that it will be working with Volvo Germany to import, sell and maintain this vehicle. This makes use of the technology synergies between the Geely owned two brands.
Germans will now get to experience the greater comfort and safety that comes with a taxi designed around the passenger. As well as the more premium feel, travellers will notice less vibration and noise as well as charging points for mobile phones, Wi-fi and additional space for six passengers.
TX customers and their passengers will benefit from the TX’s new multi-filter system that works to remove gases and particles from the incoming air. Also, an in-built air quality sensor also automatically closes the external air intake if it detects increased levels of pollution in the outside air – protecting passengers, and the driver, from poor-quality air.
LEVC anticipates these features will make the vehicle ideal for the larger street taxi market as well as the growing number of German mobility service providers.
Drivers and passengers will also benefit from world-class active and passive safety systems which will help to protect both the vehicle and other road users too. These include forward collision warnings, autonomous emergency breaking and emergency brake assistance, while the TX combines an extremely strong, rigid aluminium body shell with crash protection to the highest international standards, reinforcing the black cab trade’s reputation for safety.
The next taxi retains its predecessor’s renowned disability access features. There will be a new retractable integrated ramp making it quicker and easier for drivers to load passengers in wheelchairs in a new forward facing position. Other accessibility features include induction loops for hearing aids a well as contrasting grab handles and seat edges for the partially sighted.
