Famous manufacturer rebrands as massive order heralds firm’s evolution
Coventry-based taxi manufacturer, London Taxi Company, has relaunched its brand to reflect the company’s evolution.
The Chinese-owned company, which has recently opened a £300m factory at Ansty Park, is relaunching as LEVC – London Electric Vehicle Company.
The move coincides with a massive new order for the all-electric cabs.
Besides moving towards production of an all-electric version of its iconic black cab, the company is also set to diversify its product offering by producing an electric van, based on the powertrain of the TX taxi.
Chris Gubbey, CEO, LEVC said: “Today is an incredibly exciting day for the company, for the world’s cities, for the air we breathe and for the drivers of commercial vehicles. The launch of LEVC marks Britain’s leadership as a first mover in creating the world’s only dedicated electric vehicle company for the urban commercial market.”
Alongside the unveiling of the new name and brand logo, LEVC also revealed the final version of its new London taxi and its eCity technology, which consists of an advanced battery electric powertrain with a small petrol generator. Applied to the all-new electric TX, the company claims the technology will result in a range of more than 400 miles including well over 70 miles range with zero emissions.
“From our heritage as the manufacturer of the iconic London taxi, we have unparalleled insight into the needs of commercial operators. Drawing on the best of British design and engineering as well as technical expertise from our sister company Volvo, our products will help transform city living and provide taxi drivers with an average weekly fuel saving of £100 compared with our outgoing diesel model,” added Mr Gubbey.
Due to launch in London later this year, LEVC is finalising its quality and testing regime for the TX which has taken it to the extreme heat of the Arizona desert and freezing temperatures in the Arctic Circle.
LEVC expects strong demand from its launch market in London once the order book opens on August 1.
The vehicle is a response to the tougher emissions requirements being imposed by cities such as London on commercial vehicles.
“London has led the way in setting out tough measures to reduce taxi and van emissions and in just a few short years we expect EVs for the commercial operator will not just become commonplace, but mandatory in cities around the world creating huge opportunities for LEVC globally,” said Mr Gubbey.
The company’s approach is paying dividends, RMC, a taxi operator in the Netherlands has already placed an order for 225 of the new taxis, to be delivered in 2018. The operator has also agreed to be LEVC’s importer for the Netherlands.
“This is great news for LEVC and demonstrates the need for EV urban commercial vehicles across Europe and the world,” said Mr Gubbey.