Thursday, March 20, 2008

The future of NYC taxis

Unfortunately, the New York Auto Show hasn't been the stage for too many eco unveilings, unlike the Detroit Show that seemed to boast a "Mean or Green" theme. I'll take what I can get, however, which is why I was pleasantly pleased to see this debut from Ford.

Dubbed the Transit Connect Taxi, it's a Ford concept, but it's got legs, boasting an easy-to-climb-into interior and "the maneuverability and fuel efficiency of a small car," according to Ford. Take one look and you've got to believe that it beats the current Crown Victorias in space - score one.

Score two is for its standard, 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine and automatic transmission, equaling an estimated fuel economy of 19 mpg in the city – more than 30 percent improvement in fuel economy and nearly 90 percent lower tailpipe emissions than most of today’s traditional taxis.

An infotainment screen in the backseat and panoramic roof are added bonuses. Hopefully, it won't be too long before green travelers are hailing these eco-friendlier transit options on NYC streets.

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