London Electric Vehicle Company launches taxi-based VN5 van
British-based taxi manufacturer enters the commercial vehicle segment.
Geely-owned electric vehicle manufacturer, London Electric Vehicle Company (LEVC), has launched its VN5 medium-sized van.
LEVC's new commercial offering is underpinned by the same rear-wheel drive architecture as used with its TX London Taxi.
It also employs the same running gear – a 110kW/250Nm electric motor, assisted by a three-cylinder, 1.5-litre, Volvo-designed turbo-petrol engine, acting as a range extender.
The inclusion of the aforementioned 'eCity' range extender boosts the VN5's range from an all-electric 129km, to a total combined hybrid range of 607km.
Charging the onboard 31kWh lithium-ion battery via a 50kW DC charger takes 30 minutes. In hybrid mode, its official combined fuel economy figure is just 0.89L/100km.
The '5' in the model name represents its total cargo area volume, which is five cubic metres. The VN5 will also accept two Euro pallets, one via its sliding side door, and another through its 60:40 split rear door.
VN5 production has commenced at LEVC's manufacturing plant located in Coventry, United Kingdom. The brand expects the VN5 will make up 70 per cent of its annual 20,000 vehicle production capability, or 14,000 units.
Despite the UK market being right-hand drive, CarAdvice understands there are no official plans to introduce LEVC vehicles in Australia.
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