The modern London black cab is a high-tech hybrid built for tight city turns
In short: London's iconic black cab has evolved into a sophisticated plug-in hybrid. Designed to meet strict zero-emission regulations, the LEVC TX combines a traditional aesthetic with a bonded aluminium chassis and a unique drivetrain. It is a purpose-built machine engineered to navigate narrow streets while serving a global market.
The LEVC TX, originally known as the TX5, represents a significant shift in urban transport. Developed by the London EV Company—a subsidiary of the Chinese firm Geely—the vehicle was created to comply with Transport for London’s 2018 mandate requiring all new taxis to have zero-emissions capability. Geely invested £480 million starting in 2014 to develop the taxi and establish a new manufacturing facility near Coventry, with the vehicle entering production in 2017.
At its core, the TX is a plug-in hybrid range-extender. It operates in full-electric mode, powered by a 110-kilowatt Siemens electric motor and a 33 kilowatt-hour battery pack from LG Chem. When the battery charge runs low, a 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine from Volvo acts as a generator to extend the range. This engineering allows the vehicle to meet modern environmental standards while maintaining the practical demands of a commercial taxi fleet.
The design prioritizes urban maneuverability and accessibility. To meet strict London regulations, the TX features a tight turning circle of 8.45 metres, achieved by allowing the front wheels to turn up to 63 degrees. The interior includes features such as a deployable wheelchair ramp, high-contrast grab handles, and an audio induction loop. While the styling pays homage to the classic Austin FX4 of 1958, the vehicle is a global product, with parts sourced from the UK, China, Europe, and the United States. By March 2023, 10,000 units had been manufactured, and the TX now operates in cities across countries including Australia, Japan, and Azerbaijan.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: LEVC TX
- Also: Wikidata — LEVC TX · CC0
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/places-levc-tx.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in Cities · More in Countries & Cities · Latest · A–Z · All topics
