London Electric Vehicle Company

The London Taxi Company, now known as the London Electric Vehicle Company (LEVC), approached Boyriven with a critical requirement for their new fleet of electric taxis. They needed a seating fabric that was not only aesthetically pleasing but could also withstand the rigorous demands of a modern taxi environment—combining durability, specific tactile feel, and a distinctive look that would be instantly recognisable. The challenge was to move beyond existing off-the-shelf options and develop a material that met these precise, multi-faceted specifications.

Boyriven engaged our extensive network and specialist knowledge to deliver a completely bespoke solution:

1. Bespoke Design & Selection: Working closely with LEVC’s team, we partnered with our long-standing Austrian supplier, Kneitz Fabrics. We presented LEVC with an array of bespoke textile designs, carefully balancing the requested aesthetic with the required durability and feel. Once the final design had been selected, we moved swiftly into the development stage.
2. Real-Life Sampling: To ensure the material performed as intended in a production environment, we provided LEVC with real-life samples for them to create full-scale mock-ups. This allowed for crucial testing of pattern repeats and final seat trim appearance.
3. Technical Integration: The largest hurdle was the material’s application for high-volume manufacturing. For the fabric to be efficiently processed and installed by LEVC’s Tier 1 suppliers, it needed to be supplied as a composite material. Boyriven successfully sourced a specific foam and backing material that could be combined with the chosen fabric, ensuring perfect compatibility with LEVC’s cutting and trimming machinery.

Following the approval of the custom-backed material, a successful trial production run was completed. This proved the material’s viability, efficiency, and quality for mass assembly.

Boyriven successfully managed the development process from initial concept to final manufacturing specification. We supplied the bespoke, finished fabric directly to their Tier 1 suppliers throughout the course of the project, facilitating the creation of the beautiful, durable taxi seats and interior trimmings now featured in their entire electric taxi fleet.