
London EV Company (LEVC) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, backing the city-region's £8m Hackney Support Fund.
The government-funded initiative will provide grants to help black cab drivers transition from older, higher polluting diesel vehicles to more sustainable, zero-exhaust-emission capable taxis.The plan, which will benefit from extra investment from companies like LEVC, aims to boost Greater Manchester's taxi trade and help improve air quality by encouraging the use of cleaner vehicles.
LEVC’s backing demonstrates its commitment to the future of the taxi trade across the UK. As part of the new agreement, LEVC will expand the support it offers to drivers successful in applying for Greater Manchester's funding, providing new and used vehicle offers worth up to £2m in total.
Specifically, drivers will benefit from extended warranties and a scrappage allowance against the purchase of a used TX.
Chris Allen, Managing Director, LEVC, said:
“I am pleased to confirm that LEVC is officially backing the Greater Manchester authorities in support of their newly launched Hackney Support Fund. LEVC is contributing up to £2m to help local taxi drivers make the switch to zero-exhaust-emission capable TXs.“
TX has already transformed the taxi market in London and helped the capital achieve legal air quality targets for the first time. I'm confident that further adoption of TX In Greater Manchester will achieve similar positive results for the region and improve the quality of taxi services for both drivers and passengers alike."
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said:
“Our taxi trade is a vital part of Greater Manchester’s transport network and supports the local economy.
That’s why we’re working hard to secure funding and practical support to help drivers upgrade to cleaner, greener vehicles - improving air quality for everyone, while protecting livelihoods.
By backing our taxi trade, we’re building a fairer, healthier city-region for all.”
Grater Manchester's Hackney Support Fund:
This is part of the city-region's investment-led, non-charging Clean Air Plan, represents an important step towards cleaner air in the city region while ensuring existing taxi drivers are supported through the transitional period.
What funding grants are available?
Applicants (vehicle licensees) can apply to the Hackney Support Fund for grants to help them upgrade to a cleaner, compliant vehicle.
The grants can be used alongside other government funding, subject to compliance with the UK subsidy control regime.
Grant amounts vary depending on whether the applicant wishes to upgrade to a wheelchair accessible vehicle and/or a Zero Emission Capable (ZEC) vehicle.
Upgrading to a compliant Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle:
• £12,560 for a new or second-hand ZEC Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle
• £6,280 for a compliant Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (minimum Euro 4 petrol or Euro 6 diesel)
Upgrading to a compliant Non-Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle:
• £7,530 for a new or second-hand ZEC vehicle
• £6,280 for a compliant 6+ seater vehicle (minimum Euro 4 petrol or Euro 6 diesel)
• £3,770 for a compliant vehicle (minimum Euro 4 petrol or Euro 6 diesel)
Click for more info:
https://cleanairgm.com/hackney-support-fund/
Support fund portal:

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