LEVC, the Coventry firm that builds electric black cabs, has revealed a new modular and scalable electric vehicle (EV) platform.
Designed to provide the foundation for a range of EVs, the Space Oriented Architecture (SOA) platform could be used in everything from passenger cars to commercial vehicles.
Developed at R&D centres in China, Sweden, the UK and Germany, SOA has a flexible layout to maximise interior space, with multiple seating and load-carrying configurations.
The first LEVC model based on SOA, which was developed with owner Geely Holding Group, will be a “completely new offering, launching LEVC into new sectors”, according to a company announcement today (5 May).
A central battery in the platform provides a “truly flat” floor, the announcement said, while electric powertrain components are packaged at the front to free up space for the driver and passengers. At the rear, SOA has a rear suspension design that includes extra carrying capacity under the main luggage area. Extra rows of seats can be added, with multiple configurations made possible by a sliding track running from the front to the rear.
The platform will use batteries ranging from 73kWh to 120kWh capacity, offering range of up to 695km and ultra-fast charging, while SOA’s software, known as L-OS, will reportedly enable autonomy between Levels 2 and 4.
The open-source EV platform, which will come in different lengths, will be available to other companies to use as the basis for future products. Using the architecture could reduce development costs, LEVC said.
“SOA optimises onboard space, offering multiple configurations and endless possibilities, a new advanced EV platform which supports LEVC’s new strategy to become a leading zero-carbon mobility provider. Combined with our ground-breaking L-OS digital architecture, it will bring our new mission to life, delivering smart, green, safe and accessible mobility to all, enabling us to transform from a high end taxi manufacturer, launching LEVC into new sectors, with an extended range of state-of-the-art pure electric vehicles,” said CEO Alex Nan.
“Building on LEVC’s unrivalled heritage in producing the iconic London black cab, we are adapting our business to meet the rapidly accelerating demand for spacious, flexible electric vehicles.”