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NEW BLACK CAB REVEALED: LEVC confirms 2027 launch as current TX production reaches the end of the road
LEVC has confirmed that its next-generation London black cab will enter the UK market during the second half of 2027, replacing the range-extended electric TX introduced in 2018.
The manufacturer said the new taxi was being engineered from the ground up to comply with Transport for London’s Metropolitan Conditions of Fitness. These requirements govern features including accessibility, manoeuvrability and passenger safety for taxis licensed to operate in the capital.
Final assembly of the existing TX will conclude this month, allowing LEVC and its Ansty manufacturing facility to prepare for the new model. The timetable creates a transition period before production of the replacement taxi begins in 2027.
Full technical specifications, pricing, manufacturing volumes and a precise launch date have not yet been disclosed. LEVC said further information about the vehicle’s technology, capabilities and production would be announced in due course.
Early design sketches show an evolution of the traditional black cab shape, retaining the familiar upright silhouette while introducing a more modern appearance. The manufacturer said accessibility, durability, driver requirements and passenger needs would remain central to the vehicle’s development.
Tony Chi, chief executive officer at LEVC, said: “For more than a century, LEVC has been at the heart of urban mobility, and the black cab remains one of the most trusted and recognisable transport solutions in the world. Today’s announcement marks an important milestone as we confirm that the next chapter is already well underway.
“Our next-generation taxi will honour everything drivers and passengers value about the current TX, while taking a significant step forward in design, innovation and sustainability. We know how important the future of the black cab is to our partners and we want to reassure them that LEVC is fully committed to the future of this sector.”
Brett Boydell, global design director at LEVC, said: “Designing the next generation of iconic black cab is both an incredible responsibility and a unique opportunity. These first sketches capture the essence of what’s to come, familiar, purposeful and unmistakably LEVC, but with a fresh, modern character that reflects the future of mobility. There is much more to reveal, but this is the beginning of that journey.”
LEVC has sold more than 12,000 TX taxis worldwide. According to the company’s calculations, the model has prevented more than 450 million kilograms of carbon dioxide emissions since 2018, while contributing to a 60% reduction in nitrogen oxide emissions from London’s taxi fleet.
Its carbon calculation compares the driven exhaust emissions of 12,216 TX taxis with the equivalent number of Euro 6 diesel TX4 models, based on an assumed annual mileage of 25,000 miles and NEDC-certified emissions data. The figures cover the period from 2018 to July 2026.
Geely Group has invested more than £1 billion in LEVC since 2013, according to the announcement. LEVC said the next-generation programme would combine its experience of purpose-built taxis with the wider engineering and technology capabilities available through Geely.
The manufacturer added that the programme depended on a stable regulatory environment recognising the distinct operating requirements of licensed London taxis. It plans to continue consulting drivers, fleet operators and other industry stakeholders during development.
Existing TX owners will continue to receive parts, servicing and technical support through LEVC’s aftermarket and aftersales operations after assembly ends. The commitment will be seen as vital to drivers and fleets expected to operate current vehicles for several years beyond the model’s production run.
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