PEAK PERFORMANCE: E1 Taxis and Ascotts announce arrival of new LEVC TX light ‘peak’

Image credit: E1 Taxis Limited

Two of London’s leading LEVC dealerships have announced the arrival of a new black cab roof-light ‘peak’ aiming to improve public visibility.

Both London approved LEVC dealerships, E1 Taxis and Ascotts, shared updates today with the industry, displaying the new visor fixed above the orange for-hire light. Separate photos taken outside the respective dealerships showed a long black visor placed to shield natural light away from the taxi light.

Feedback from drivers of the electric TX black cab, and those trying to hail the taxi, has long suggested difficulty seeing whether the roof light placed on the popular electric taxi is switched on or off. On a bright summer's day the issue is particularly prevalent with people trying to wave down taxis already in use.

Following early feedback from drivers and licensing authorities, some work was undertaken to improve the visibility of the light. According to the Coventry based taxi manufacturers, the ‘TAXI’ text was made bolder.

As part of the licensing approval process, a London licensed taxi is required to meet the licensing authority's Conditions of Fitness.

In London this includes Condition 25 that states: 'A “Taxi” sign approved by LTPH, is clearly visible both by day and night when the taxi is available for hire, must be fitted.'

An Ascotts Group spokesperson said: “LEVC have launched a new accessory to enhance the visibility of the TX for hire light.

“The new TX roof light ''peak' is a visor which sits above the hire sign to shield light away.

“Now in stock at Ascotts with fitting to start from Monday 22/05”

An E1 Taxis spokesperson said: “The Hire Sign Peak accessory has now been launched.

“This accessory has been introduced to enhance the contrast in bright sun conditions.

“They will be fitted free of charge as a promotion until 17/11/23 subject to stock.

“Due to high demand we will only be fitting the hire sign accessory to vehicles which are either booked in for a service or a repair which exceeds 1 hour.”