Taxi manufacturer LEVC “FULLY COMMITTED” to London black cab market with new product plans coming in the “NEAR FUTURE”
- Perry Richardson
- 3 minutes ago
- 2 min read
London electric taxi manufacturer LEVC has reiterated its full commitment to the capital’s licensed taxi trade, saying the London black cab remains “at the heart” of its business amid ongoing industry discussion about future vehicle development and regulatory standards.
In an exclusive statement provided to TaxiPoint, an LEVC spokesperson said the company remained “fully committed to the London taxi trade and the continued development of the iconic black cab”.
The manufacturer also highlighted the scale of investment made by parent company Geely Group into the business and its electric TX taxi programme.
The comments come as the taxi industry continues to debate the future shape of London’s purpose-built taxi fleet, with growing scrutiny on vehicle affordability, accessibility standards and the ability for new manufacturers to enter the market.
Taxi manufacturer says more product updates will follow as questions around the long-term future of purpose-built black cabs are put to bed
LEVC used the statement to draw a clear distinction between the TX model and multi-purpose vehicle conversions increasingly discussed within sections of the London market. The manufacturer said its purpose-built taxi design was engineered specifically around London’s licensing requirements and operational environment.
According to LEVC, the TX meets key regulatory requirements including wheelchair accessibility standards, a tight turning circle needed for operation on London streets, and overall vehicle dimensions suitable for existing taxi ranks across the capital.
The London taxi market has faced sustained pressure in recent years from rising vehicle purchase costs, insurance increases and falling driver numbers. However, the TX remains the only fully purpose-built electric capable taxi currently available that complies with Transport for London Conditions of Fitness regulations.
Most notably, LEVC also signalled that further announcements on future products and strategy are expected soon. The spokesperson said the company continues to work alongside regulators, government and trade representatives to help shape future urban mobility policy and vehicle requirements.
A LEVC spokesperson told TaxiPoint: “LEVC remains fully committed to the London taxi trade and the continued development of the iconic black cab.
“To date, Geely Group has invested over £1bn in the development of LEVC and its operations, ensuring that the brand can produce an iconic, zero-exhaust-emission capable black cab that is fully compliant with London’s Conditions of Fitness. Its purpose-built design ensures a passenger car-type experience for drivers and passengers alike, whilst meeting key regulatory criteria. This includes side door aperture width for maximum wheelchair accessibility, a tight turning circle for manoeuvrability in London's busy streets, and a vehicle length of less than 5m to fit within today's taxi ranks. All this sets TX apart from many MPV-conversions - often originating from van platforms - which currently don’t meet these conditions.
“The London taxi trade is at the heart of our business and we continue to work closely with regulators, government and trade partners to help shape the future of urban mobility and ensure we deliver the best possible vehicles for the trade, both now and in the years ahead.
“We will provide further updates on our product plans in the near future.”
