Since its launch in 2018, LEVC has been the market leaders for all things electric taxi related on the streets of London. Fast forward to 2019, and now the Nissan Dynamo electric taxi, dubbed “The Worlds First 100% Electric Black Cab” will make its introduction, attempting to prove the credentials needed to make a dent in the EV taxi market.
This article will look at both taxis and compare its appearance, features, affordability and running costs.
Appearance and features
LEVC TX
Boasting the frame of the traditional hackney carriage, the LEVC TX eCity is deemed as a user friendly, accessible black cab. The panoramic glass stands as a top feature of the taxi, giving users the chance to see city landmarks from the open sky above them. Passengers can also expect to stay well connected during their travels, as all taxis come equipped with free Wi-Fi availability and USB ports on board.
On the accessibility front, wheelchair access comes via a discreet access ramp integrated into the floorspace, also included is a driver-passenger microphone system and a hearing induction loop.
Dynamo Electric Taxi
While the taxi does not resemble the traditional TX appearance, the taxi is modelled on the proven and popular e-NV200 Evalia and can board around 5 passengers at one time.
Just like the LEVC TX, the dynamo taxi’s connectivity provides huge value to drivers and passengers. The taxi comes with smart phone integration via Bluetooth, USB charge points for two chargers and air conditioning that can be preset with the dedicated taxi app or the vehicle key fob.
The taxi is also equipped with a double folded, easy stow ramp, a panoramic roof and easy to wipe down seats.
However, criticisms for the taxi have been centered around the sliding windows which gives the taxi a “van feel”, and the manual passenger doors, which at first glance would have been expected to be electric to add to the consistency of the taxi.
Safety and comfort
LEVC TX
The LEVC taxi has been designed to be the “ultimate mobile office” for the professional taxi driver.
The fully-adjustable and ergonomically-designed seat delivers drivers supportive comfort throughout the day. Powerful automatic air conditioning keeps drivers cool under pressure.
The angled central touchscreen provides access to all of the vehicle’s systems and settings, from incoming calls to satellite navigation assistance.
The TX has completed more test mileage than all of the previous models put together, put through its paces in places such as the Arctic tundra – as well as in the busy urban settings where it will most commonly be used.
Dynamo Electric Taxi
The Nissan Dynamo Taxi has Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) that continuously monitors driving ability. It will recognise under and over-steering and can compensate for this by reducing speed or applying gentle braking, keeping drivers and their passengers safe. The cab also comes with tire pressure monitoring.
Also, with Nissan’s e-NV200 air conditioning system, cabbies can warm up or cool down quickly in any weather with a push of a button. For cold mornings the cab is equipped with a heated front seat and also a heated steering wheel.
One feature also highly communicated is the Click & Go Key fob, allowing taxi owners to lock and unlock their cabs without having to get their key out, providing seamless entry. The fob can also be used for climate control.
Price and running costs
LEVC TX
The LEVC TX outright price is set at £57,099, meanwhile, the taxi is also available to lease from £184. Included in the price is the delivery charge, first registration fee and the £7,5000 plug in taxi grant issued by the Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV). The taxi only requires scheduled servicing every 25,000 miles.
LEVC claims cabbies will save up to £110 a week, which will account to a total 5 year saving of £27,389. The taxi comes with 3 years, 120k miles full vehicle warranty and 5 years unlimited mileage battery warranty.
Dynamo Electric Taxi
The price for the Dynamo Electric Taxi is £45,495, this also includes the £7,500 taxi grant. There are also bespoke finance packages available for all drivers to accommodate differing circumstances including a less than perfect credit rating.
The motor company claim that the vehicle will have ‘Fuel’ costs of only 3p per mile estimated based on charging at home, service costs reduced by 30% and over 170 miles per charge. They also believe the Dynamo will cost £30 per week on electricity and will become the most cost effective taxi in the UK. Another benefit of the taxi is that the vehicle can be charged by a standard household 3 pin plug socket, bypassing the need for a home charging point installation.
The taxi requires scheduled servicing every 18,000 miles and is covered by a warranty of three years, with batteries covered with a separate warranty of five years.
Our opinion:
Ultimately, we believe there are strong cases for both taxis. The LEVC model and appearance alone will sway many drivers as it blends tradition and 21st century living together with a design inspired by the iconic FX4 Black Cab.
As for the Nissan Dynamo taxi, while the shape may cause reservations for some drivers, the Hackney carriage has always had alternative looks throughout the generations and shouldn’t stop drivers from giving the vehicle a chance. As John Heath, Market Development Manager of Dynamo Motors says, “the Dynamo Taxi isn’t for everybody”.
Which cab do you prefer? Tweet us your thoughts @PlanInsurance
Read More: Electric Black Cab Insurance