Already a hit on the streets of London, the “Taxi of Tomorrow” continues to make headlines – this time in the Big Apple. The little minivan is now New York’s official taxi. That said, Nissan will be facing a new challenge this time round, according to the New York Times.
In a busy metropolis known for its yellow cabs that usually come in the form of a Ford Crown Victoria, the Nissan NV200 will face an uphill challenge in getting taxi drivers to switch from their ageing taxis over to the yellow minivan. More drivers are reportedly going with ridesharing app Uber.
At this moment in time, only 750 NV200 taxis roam the New York streets, out of a total 13,000 cabs. However, the number should be moving up the scale fast as 3,000 cab drivers normally replace their vehicles annually. Some 80% of taxis in NYC are expected to be Nissan NV200s, with the remaining being hybrids or wheelchair-accessible models.
Passengers in NYC who have sat in the NV200 have been reportedly deeply impressed by the transparent roof panels and the availability of USB charging ports for their mobile devices. However, some felt that the NV200 did not have enough headroom, was “ugly” and ruined the “stereotypical image” of New York’s iconic yellow cabs.
As for the drivers themselves, overall feedback has been positive, with some complimenting the ergonomic seats. That’s not to say that there have not been negative feedback though. The wheelchair-accessible feature in some of the NV200s are reported to be adding on too much weight – leading to worn out tyres.
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Hopefully SPAD aware of this news.
Look so nice and clean. Unlike here in Malaysia, where it is a nightmare to sit in a teksi. The NY Mayor is interested in getting the best for his people.
Here, our politicians and leaders are interested in stealing. They are so busy stealing that they have forgotten the rakyat and fighting for the rakyat needs.
I hope Malaysia changes. Too many corrupt people in our Government and especially SPAD
Proof?
you first day in Malaysia?
You believe hearsay and everything on internet?
Exora also can
All the complains from the drivers n customers can be taken in for future improvements so the problems at the moment are only temporary and minor.
But it does look a bit weird la especially in NYC. Thoese big yellow cabs although looks okay are just not economical.
What? Fc high?
Yeah good for ‘Fake Taxi’s….