The LEVC TX taxi offers a practical solution for the taxi industry with its hybrid design, combining electric power with a petrol engine that acts solely as a generator. This setup ensures that taxi drivers can keep working without worrying about battery depletion, especially on long shifts or routes with limited charging infrastructure.
Unlike traditional hybrids, where both engines drive the wheels, the LEVC TX uses the petrol engine exclusively to recharge the battery when it runs low. The Volvo-designed 1.5-litre petrol engine provides 81hp, enabling the taxi to cover longer distances without the need for frequent stops at charging points. This flexibility is vital in the taxi business, where time is money and unpredictable routes are common.
UK taxi drivers face several barriers to adopting fully electric vehicles, including limited charging points, high electricity costs, and lack of access to off-street parking. Fully electric taxis also face practicality issues due to long charging times, making them unsuitable for high-mileage shifts.
The updated LEVC TX features a 34.6kWh battery, offering an improved 78-mile electric range, which is ideal for daily urban routes. For longer shifts, the petrol engine provides an additional range, making the hybrid system a more viable option until charging infrastructure improves.
With the current infrastructure limitations, the LEVC TX hybrid system offers a more feasible and reliable solution for the UK’s taxi industry.
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