The overwhelming majority of taxi types found in South Korea are Korean ones. The most commonly used taxi types are sedans such as Hyundai’s Sonata and Grandeur and Kia’s K5, K7, and K8. Sometimes, luxury models such as K9, G90, and G80 can be found among premium taxis that can be selected at the driver’s discretion.
Although most taxis have a similar appearance, it is a hot topic because a vehicle that is unique at a glance can be seen being operated as a taxi. This vehicle is the British Black Cab Taxi TX model, produced in 2017 by London EV Company, a subsidiary of China’s Geely.
Invested in by Geely, imported by a South Korean company
The name Black Cap comes from its toad-like appearance and black exterior color. It has been operated as a British taxi for a long time and has become a symbol of the streets of London. How are black cab taxis, revived by Geely with a huge investment of capital, and taxis that can only be seen on the streets of England, operating in South Korea?
These are vehicles imported into South Korea by South Korea’s AT Mobility under an exclusive import rights contract with LEVC. Coactus, a social venture company, signed an agreement with AT Mobility and will use black cab taxis in its South Korean transportation business. As only a few vehicles have been imported into South Korea, it is difficult to see them.
Visuals reminiscent of Bentley
Door handles in chrome
The exterior design’s square grille catches the eye from the front. The headlamp is designed in a circular shape. The daytime running lights shine like jewels. A wing-shaped emblem is applied to the center of the front, creating a luxurious feel. The entire front part is rounded.
The door handle is made of chrome, and the door opens like a coach door, allowing passengers to feel like VIPs when getting on. At the rear, angular tail lamps with chrome garnish were applied. Unlike the tailgate, which creates a luxurious feel, the curved bumper part gives a soft feeling.
Equipped with a PHEV powertrain
It has a plug-in hybrid system that complies with European diesel regulations. In the case of the powertrain, an engine from Volvo, a subsidiary of Geely, has been installed, and the engine is a 1.5-liter in-line three-cylinder engine with a maximum output of 81 horsepower. Additionally, an electric motor producing 150 horsepower has been installed. When driving in pure electric mode, it can travel 129.7 km (80.6 miles), and when using the range extender together, it can drive a whopping 607 km (377 miles).
In the interior, a transparent plastic curtain has been installed between the first and second rows to provide passengers with personal space. Fees are also paid through a small hole in the curtain. Electric seats are applied to the first row, and the seats in the separated second and third rows are arranged to face each other. Ambient light is used under the seats to create a moody indoor space. The center seat is foldable, so a cup holder and armrest in the center seat create a comfortable interior layout.
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