Coventry-built taxi named electric vehicle of the year
The new Coventry-built electric London Taxi has been awarded a major title for its commitment to improving air quality – even though it has yet to be brought into full service.
Winning the Low Carbon Car/Van Manufacturer of the Year category at the 2017 Low Carbon Champions Awards, the London Electric Vehicle Company – formerly London Taxi Company – beat two major car makers both synonymous with their longstanding commitment to electric and low emission vehicles, Renault and Toyota.
The Low Carbon Champions Awards, held at the NEC and organised by the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership, are designed to identify and promote examples of outstanding and innovative practice in the field of lower carbon vehicles and emissions reduction.
Underpinned by an investment totalling £325m in its new Ansty Park plant, LEVC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Geely, is aiming to be the supplier of choice for electric taxis in cities around the world.
Its commercial vehicle strategy will also see the launch of an electric van, based on the new TX taxi.
The LEVC vehicles use eCity technology, which comprises an advanced battery electric powertrain with a small petrol generator. Applied to the all-new electric TX, the technology allows for a range of more than 400 miles including over 70 miles with zero emissions.
Chris Gubbey, CEO, LEVC said: “From our heritage as the manufacturer of the iconic London Taxi, we have unparalleled insight into the needs of commercial operators passengers/customers – and we also understand that those needs go hand-in-hand with the drive to improving the air we breathe in our cities. Whether that’s London, Amsterdam or Hong Kong.
“The new TX draws 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, saving drivers money passengers/customers and helping in the fight to reduce urban emissions. I have no doubt that this award will be just the first of many, but this one will be especially cherished.”
Due to launch in London later this year, LEVC’s TX has already received over 4,000 expressions of interest from operators in London.
