CHARGING INTO SPAIN: Taxi manufacturers LEVC launch Auto Elia partnership in Madrid
LEVC (London Electric Vehicle Company) has launched into the Spanish commercial vehicle market with the appointment of a new dealer partner, Auto Elia, in Madrid.
The showroom in the Spanish capital is set to provide customers full sales and aftersales support for LEVC’s TX Shuttle, based on the iconic London taxi, along with the company’s new electric van, VN5.
Customers in Spain can take advantage of a number of Government subsidies intended to improve the uptake of electric vehicles. The MOVES incentive was subject to a Government-funded injection up to €800million, the Energy Ministry confirmed in April, to make electric vehicles cheaper for both private motorists and business. As a result of the MOVES scheme, buyers can receive from €7,000 to €9,000 off the purchase price of a new electric van, while customers could obtain greater benefits in some cities.
Joerg Hofmann, CEO of LEVC, said: “Spain is an important market for LEVC as we continue to grow our brand and representation across Europe. By partnering with Auto Elia in Madrid, this strategic move gives our TX and VN5 products great exposure and access to customers in the capital city and also supports the region’s ambition to accelerate the switch to electric commercial vehicles.”
Antonio Benito, Managing Director of Auto Elia, said: “Auto Elia is excited to represent LEVC in Madrid, and to be one of the pioneers in the launch of the brand in Spain. Innovation and caring for a sustainable future is one of the cornerstones of Auto Elia. We respect LEVC as a manufacturer of premium quality electric vehicles, and we think that demand for range extended light commercial vehicles and taxi vehicles is starting in Spain. That is why we think that LEVC's new, innovative products fit perfectly into our company.”
Martin Rada, Managing Director for EU operations, said: “I am pleased to welcome Auto Elia to our European dealer network. With their professional automotive experience and local market knowledge, we are sure that they will continue providing their excellent service to new customers looking to switch to greener commercial vehicles. I look forward to seeing TX and VN5 on the streets of Madrid very soon.”
LEVC are seeing a growing demand for its TX products in Europe, as taxi operators and on demand shuttle services switch to greener mobility solutions. TX and TX shuttle are powered by LEVC’s eCity technology and is zero emissions capable for 63 miles, but comes with a flexible range of over 316 miles.
Both TX models feature a spacious passenger cabin with six passenger seats, wheelchair accessibility and a purpose-built partition separating the driver from occupants.
