New challenge for London cabs
2012-08-07 13:41
TAXI FOR EVERYONE: Nissan has designed a new 'black cab' which is intended to benefit passengers, other road users and even city inhabitants.
LONDON, England - Nissan has unveiled an exciting new concept for the London ‘black cab’ which gets 300 000 daily users. Making waves in other cities, too, the vehicle has been launched in Tokyo and has been chosen as the New York City ‘taxi of tomorrow’.
The NV200 is set to reduce significantly CO2 emissions as the engine only emits up to 138g/km of CO2, which suits London mayor Boris Johnson’s Air Quality Strategy for the city. The mayor, disability groups and the London Taxi Drivers’ Association have welcome the arrival of the NV200.
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A former ‘black cab’, the LTI FX4, gave Nissan a good reputation in the city and the new NV200 will have to build on this.
Steve McNamara, general secretary of the Licensed Taxi Drivers’ Association, said: “Nissan already has a great footing in the London taxi market. From what I’ve seen of the NV200 taxi, it ticks all the right boxes. If the fuel consumption figures are as promised, it will be a big seller.”
FOR ALL PASSENGERS
Designed with the well-being of passengers, drivers and other road users in mind, the vehicle is more environmentally friendly while providing comfort, space and convenience for occupants, including those with mobility issues. Alan Norton from Assist UK, said:
“We are proud to be associated with Nissan in the development of an accessible taxi to meet the needs of all disabled people. We have had the opportunity to bring together experts from all fields of disability to work with designers to ensure the vehicle will work for all of their transport needs. We congratulate Nissan for its initiative and wish it every success with its project.”
It will be seat five adults, three on a rear bench and two on rear-facing seats. The front passenger seat has been removed to create space for luggage.
ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY
The fuel consumption will suit the pockets of taxi drivers as the vehicle is set to save them around 50% on fuel, compared to the TX4. The car's economical 1.5 dCi EuroV, six-speed manual drivetrain is apparently capable of 4.41 litres/100km on a combined cycle and a battery version could benefit the city’s air quality significantly.
Johnson said: "I am absolutely delighted that manufacturers are stepping up to the plate and are responding to the challenge I set in my air quality strategy to reduce taxi emissions and improve efficiency. I look forward to when a fully competitive model comes to market."
The vehicle is set for final testing and aims to receive full London taxi certification later in 2012.
