The famous London taxis are changing, China remains in control
- Published on 17/09/2026 12:14
A new London taxi, LEVC, will arrive in 2027: behind this British icon, the Chinese group Geely continues a transformation initiated thirteen years ago.
London without its black cabs? Unthinkable. But behind their reassuring silhouette, the famous black cabs have changed eras… and owners. LEVC announces a new generation for the second half of 2027 in the UK. This will extend a British story whose next chapters are now financed by China.
From the legendary Austin FX4 to the acquisition by Geely
Motorized London taxis appeared at the beginning of the 20th century. The Austin FX3 made its debut in 1948, followed by the FX4, launched in 1958. Produced until 1997, the latter became a true rolling postcard, with its rounded shapes and generous cabin. The TX1, TXII, and TX4 then perpetuated this recipe.
But tradition alone was not enough to balance the books. In 2013, Geely acquired the assets of the struggling manufacturer. The Chinese group thus preserved this institution, renamed LEVC in 2017, the year the factory in Ansty, near Coventry, opened. According to the company, its investments have exceeded one billion pounds since 2013.
A new London taxi in 2027, still quite mysterious
Launched in 2018, the TX embodies this shift. The wheels are electrically powered, while a petrol engine extends the range by producing electricity. Therefore, be cautious: this taxi can operate with zero exhaust emissions, but it is not exclusively battery electric. More than 12,000 units have been sold worldwide.
Its replacement will retain a recognizable silhouette and must meet the requirements of Transport for London, particularly regarding accessibility. However, LEVC has yet to reveal any details about the engine, range, or price.
The final assembly of the TX will finish by September 2026, ahead of a production restart announced for 2027. The black cab maintains its London accent. To prepare for the future, it relies on the resources of its Chinese owner.
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This page is translated from the original post "Les célèbres Taxis londoniens changent, la Chine reste aux commandes" in French.
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