OVER HALF WAY THERE: Over half of London’s black cabs now zero-emission capable

Image credit: LEVC

Over half of London's black cab fleet has now transitioned to zero-emission capable vehicles.

With the UK capital aiming to achieve its net-zero emissions target, LEVC's electric TX has played its part in accelerating the transition away from fossil fuel reliance. More than 50 percent of London's 14,700 black taxis are now actively contributing to cleaning up the city's air quality, resulting in a substantial reduction in the overall environmental impact of this iconic taxi fleet.

LEVC's electric TX taxi is not limited to London alone; as the number of these purpose-built vehicles increases across the UK, the impact on cities becomes even more pronounced. Powered by LEVC's revolutionary eCity technology, the electric TX taxi has successfully covered over 700 million miles worldwide since its introduction in 2018. This outstanding achievement has prevented more than 200,000 tonnes of harmful CO2 emissions from entering the atmosphere, securing a cleaner and healthier future for all.

The electric taxi milestone signifies a crucial moment in the pursuit of sustainable urban mobility. By embracing green vehicles, London is leading the way in demonstrating the crucial role of electric transportation in creating a cleaner and more accessible city for its residents.

Helen Chapman, Director of Licensing and Regulation at TfL, said: “London’s black taxis are recognised worldwide and we are proud to see that so many drivers are helping clean up our air and assist us in tackling the city’s health emergency by driving zero emission capable (ZEC) vehicles. Reaching this milestone is a great reflection of how London is working hard to be a greener, more sustainable, environmentally friendly city. We know that by bringing more electric and ZEC vehicles to London we can continue to bring down the level of harmful chemicals in the air and reduce the impact of road transport on our environment.

“Making the taxi fleet cleaner and bringing more electric vehicle charging points to the capital are significant parts of the wider efforts we’re making to help continue being London’s strong, green heartbeat, cleaning London’s air and helping get Londoners around the city in the greenest ways possible.”

The Deputy Mayor for Transport, Seb Dance, said: “The Mayor and TfL are taking bold action to tackle London’s toxic air and to help ensure London hits its target of achieving net zero carbon by 2030 - and London’s taxi trade are supporting this goal by switching to cleaner, greener taxis for the benefit of London.

“We’ve seen an impressive increase in electric vehicle uptake over the last year. I’m proud to celebrate the fact that more than half of London’s taxi fleet is now zero-emission capable.

“The Mayor and I will continue working with councils, the Government and the private sector to build upon the infrastructure we have in the capital to help build a better, fairer, greener London for everyone.”

Alex Nan, CEO of LEVC, said: “With more than half the black cabs on London’s streets now zero emission capable thanks to the iconic TX, today represents another momentous milestone for LEVC. We would like to thank London’s famous black cab drivers, who have been instrumental in this achievement.

“Since its launch, the TX has delivered an unrivalled sustainable mobility solution. Globally the TX has saved an incredible 200,000 tonnes of CO2 from entering the atmosphere, with London leading the way in helping us to achieve that. But there is always more that we can do. Other cities can learn from London’s world-leading approach, improving air quality throughout urban settings, to the benefit of the public and the environment.

“LEVC is committed to working alongside policymakers to demonstrate the positive impact that the TX is having in our cities, as we seek to continue building a greener and more accessible transport network better suited for all.”

Steve McNamara, General Secretary of the Licensed Taxi Drivers’ Association, said: “London’s licensed taxi drivers are leading the way in cleaning up the capital’s air. The self-employed drivers we represent have invested more than £500 million in these fantastic zero emission vehicles and continue to invest at record levels.

“Our members take great pride in driving these clean, green vehicles and passengers enjoy travelling in them. With continued financial support and further investment in rapid charging infrastructure, cabbies will keep working towards a fully zero-emission fleet, whilst providing the same high-quality, reliable, accessible service London’s taxis are known for.”