Why did LEVC chose a range extender for its TX taxi rather than a fully electric vehicle?

Electric vehicles are growing increasingly popular as people continue to seek out sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation options. However, electric car manufacturer LEVC, who produce the iconic London taxis, are taking a different approach.

LEVC’s electric taxi, the TX, comes equipped with a petrol range extender. This begs the question, why does the taxi need a range extender? And why isn’t it all electric?

According to a LEVC spokesperson, the company has chosen a battery that is the appropriate size to cover most taxi drivers’ daily usage. The battery is not larger, as bigger batteries would be required in high-performance passenger vehicles to ensure adequate real-world range, which would add extra cost and weight.

In a commercial vehicle, bigger batteries would also mean more cost and more weight, which would reduce the efficiency and running cost advantages of the electric taxi. Therefore, the TX model is backed up by a petrol range extender to reduce range anxiety and provide greater usability and flexibility.

The petrol range extender means that the taxi can run on petrol when the battery is depleted, providing drivers with peace of mind that they can complete their journeys without having to stop and recharge their vehicle.

Despite not being fully electric, the LEVC TX taxi still offers a more environmentally-friendly option compared to the traditional petrol-powered taxis. And retaining the range extender ultimately increases the versatility, meaning passengers can always rely on London's iconic black cabs.