The first prototypes of the new van from London Electric Vehicle Company (LEVC) are now being built at the company’s factory in Ansty, Coventry.
According to LEVC, due to the advanced manufacturing flexibility of the facility, it has been possible to build these verification prototypes on the same line, fully integrated with current TX production.
The prototypes will be deployed as test vehicles and undergo a development and homologation programme including hot and cold climate testing, durability and crash testing.
LEVC’s hybrid-electric van is constructed using the same lightweight aluminium architecture as its TX hybrid-electric taxi, which means it is 30% lighter than a conventional steel body, resistant to rust and can absorb twice the crash energy of mild steel.
It also features a city-friendly turning circle of 10.1m and will reportedly offer class-leading total cost of ownership.
Joerg Hofmann, CEO of LEVC, said: “[Reaching the] prototype stage is an important milestone in our new electric van’s development process as we stay on track towards full production in Q4.
“This new van satisfies the growing demand for zero-emissions vehicles in the 1-tonne segment, currently dominated by diesel products, and combines this with extended mileage capability to totally eliminate any range-anxiety.
“It’s an intelligent green mobility solution for any commercial vehicle operator.”
Using the TX e-City range-extender technology, LEVC’s new van offers 80 miles (130km) of emission-free driving and an extended total range of over 370 miles (600km), providing a potential transport link between out of town depots and city centres.
Want to learn more about how electric vehicles are transforming urban logistics? CiTTi Exhibition takes place on the 3rd and 4th of June at Coventry’s Ricoh Arena. Register your interest to attend at www.cittiexhibition.co.uk
