LEVC Confirms Next-Generation Black Cab Launch for 2027
London EV Company (LEVC) has officially announced that its next-generation purpose-built black cab will launch in the UK during the second half of 2027. Here are the confirmed facts regarding manufacturing, regulations, and design updates.
Official LEVC sketch showing the updated front styling, featuring circular LED lighting elements.
Manufacturing & Timeline: UK Production Confirmed
LEVC has confirmed that final assembly of the current TX model concludes in September 2026. This wind-down allows LEVC to retool and prepare its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Ansty, near Coventry, to produce the next-generation vehicle.
New vehicle production is scheduled to begin in 2027 at the Ansty plant. LEVC’s aftermarket and aftersales networks will continue full operations to provide spare parts, servicing, and technical support for existing TX drivers and fleet operators.
Confirmed Transition Timeline
September 2026: Final assembly of the current TX concludes at Ansty.
2027: Production lines retool and assembly of the new model begins.
H2 2027: Official UK market launch and initial deliveries.
Engineering & Regulatory Compliance
Unlike a simple exterior facelift, LEVC stated that the 2027 vehicle has been engineered from the ground up. Key technical parameters confirmed by the manufacturer include:
- Metropolitan Conditions of Fitness: The vehicle is engineered to meet Transport for London’s (TfL) strict standards for licensed hackney carriages.
- Tight Turning Circle: It retains the required 25-foot turning circle necessary for London street navigation.
- Geely Engineering Backing: Developed using platform synergies from parent company Geely Group, which has invested over £1 billion in LEVC since 2013.
Official LEVC silhouette sketch highlighting the updated body lines while maintaining the iconic Hackney Carriage shape.
Exterior & Interior Design Updates
Official design sketches released by LEVC demonstrate a clear visual evolution of the traditional black cab silhouette.
Exterior Evolution
Retains the iconic upright black cab stance while introducing modernized body lines, revised paneling, and updated LED lighting signatures.
Driver Usability
Developed specifically to improve driver cabin ergonomics, dashboard layout, and daily operational usability over long shifts.
Passenger Accessibility
Maintains a purpose-built, fully accessible passenger compartment designed around inclusivity, wheelchair access, and passenger durability.
Vehicle Legacy
The outgoing TX range-extended electric taxi, introduced in 2018, saw over 12,000 units sold globally. LEVC calculations indicate the TX fleet prevented over 450 million kg of CO2 emissions and contributed to a 60% reduction in London taxi fleet NOx emissions. Full powertrain specifications, exact performance figures, and pricing for the 2027 replacement will be disclosed closer to launch.
