LEVC TX Electric Taxi 2024 Update Test Driven In London

London's famous black cab, also known as the LEVC TX, has been powered by electricity since 2017 and has sold over 7,000 units as of May 2022. This iconic vehicle has recently undergone an upgrade, revealing its capabilities as the ultimate city taxi. The efficiency of electric vehicles in urban environments, with their constant stops and starts, makes them a popular choice for city taxis. Nevertheless, the infrastructure for charging remains a challenge.

The LEVC TX was designed as a range extender, similar to the BMW i3 Rex. It comes with a large battery that exclusively powers the wheels through an electric motor, unlike regular hybrids. However, a fossil fuel engine still exists in the vehicle but only serves as a generator when the battery charge dips below a particular level. This design offers the advantage of battery-powered driving, with the fossil fuel engine as backup if a longer journey is required or a charger is unavailable.

The original LEVC TX model had a 33kWh LG Chem battery pack, with 31kWh being usable. The updated version comes with a slightly larger 34.6kWh battery, but further improvements in efficiency increases the full electric range to 78 miles, a 22% improvement from the previous 64 miles.

Despite its size and weight, the LEVC TX demonstrates suitable driving performance, proving comfortable and well-adapted to the unique driving conditions of London, even on the city's rough roads. Moreover, the vehicle complies with London taxi regulations that require a small turning radius, enabling it to perform a U-turn on a standard British road.

The LEVC TX is more than just a vehicle; it's a purpose-built taxi. It is spacious, boasting up to six seats in its Vista variants. The car also includes a ramp for wheelchair access, a panoramic sunroof for enhanced visibility (only in Vista Comfort or Comfort Plus versions), and an intercom system for smooth communication between the driver and passengers.

The infotainment system in the TX, however, leaves much to be desired due to its outdated design. Compared to the cutting-edge tech found in other Geely vehicles, the TX's infotainment system seems dated and lacks wireless phone charging and support for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

Despite its high cost, the LEVC TX remains a competitive choice for taxis thanks to the Plug-In Taxi Grant available for wheelchair-accessible vehicles. The vehicle's affordability also lies in its low running costs, provided that overnight electricity is available at reasonable prices.

However, as battery technology and charging infrastructure continue to improve, the time is ripe for a fully electric version of the TX. This, coupled with an updated infotainment system, could strengthen the TX's position as the world's most iconic taxi. In its current state, the upgraded TX is still a suitable choice for taxi drivers, although there is scope for more modern improvements.