LEVC launches its electric taxi TX in Berlin

LEVC (London EV Company) has launched its electric taxi, the TX, in Berlin and has also announced its intention to partner with Volvo Germany to sell and distribute the vehicle.

The TX combines cutting-edge technology with classic British design. The vehicle is intended to play a role in Germany's energy transition, helping operators move away from conventional fossil fuel powered vehicles, reducing their carbon footprint and improving air quality in cities across Germany. This a timely arrival for the vehicle, as Germany risks missing its 2020 carbon reduction targets due to the carbon intensity of its road transport network.

Speaking at the launch event, Carl-Peter Forster, Chairman of LEVC said, "Everyone is realising that the goals of the "energy transition" and improvement of air quality can only be achieved if more electric cars drive on German roads. We can help with our TX"‹."‹"

All LEVC products include eCity technology, a battery electric powertrain with a small back-up petrol generator. Applied to the all-new TX, the technology allows for a range of 640km (377 miles) including up to 130km (80 miles) pure electric range.

LEVC also announce that it will be working with Volvo Germany to import, sell and maintain this vehicle. This makes use of the technology synergies between the two brands.

Thomas Bauch, CEO of Volvo Cars Germany said, "Volvo Cara Germany and LEVC will work closely together in marketing and service in Germany. The drivers can therefore fall back on the Volvo network after the conclusion of the contract negotiations"‹."

TX customers and their passengers will benefit from the TX's new multi-filter system that works to remove gases and particles from the incoming air. Also, an in-built air quality sensor also automatically closes the external air intake if it detects increased levels of pollution in the outside air, protecting passengers, and the driver, from poor-quality air.

LEVC anticipates these features will make the vehicle ideal for the larger street taxi market as well as the growing number of German mobility service providers.

Chris Gubbey, CEO of LEVC said, ""‹We built the TX to tackle the mobility issues of the future. Smoother and more comfortable, our taxi will be a revolution for drivers and passengers alike. Our TX combines a first-class electric drive with a range extender. This saves taxi drivers up to €440 ($585) a month in fuel costs and ensures this electric vehicle is always on the road.""‹

Drivers and passengers will also benefit from active and passive safety systems which will help to protect both the vehicle and other road users too. These include forward collision warnings, autonomous emergency breaking and emergency brake assistance, while the TX combines an extremely strong, rigid aluminium body shell with crash protection to the highest international standards.

The new taxi retains its predecessor's renowned disability access features. There will be a new retractable integrated ramp making it quicker and easier for drivers to load passengers in wheelchairs in a new forward facing position. Other accessibility features include induction loops for hearing aids a well as contrasting grab handles and seat edges for the partially sighted.