REDESIGNING THE TAXI FOR A NEW ROLE

In order to render the conventional taxi more serviceable and fuel efficient, a new design seems invevitable. UMTA supplied funds on a contract bid to two American firms to design prototypes of a low polluting taxi. Design specifications included reduction of lateral dimensions, optimization for use by 2 to 3 passengers while retaining load capacity for 4, above average comfort, and upgraded turning radius and maneuverability. Volvo and Volkswagen also submitted prototypes. Both designs presented by the American Machine Foundry and Steam Power Systems were steam-driven versions. Both also have built in ramps for wheelchairs in order to accommodate the transportation needs of the elderly and handicapped. The structure of both these vehicles is described in detail. Volvo designed a diesel taxi, and Volkswagen a hybrid vehicle (both electric and galoline engine). The design of these prototypes is also described. The changes needed in paratransit to provide a transportation bridge between route-bound mass transit and private vehicles will require more than then the city taxi, but this one step at least is a beginning in offering wider modal choices.

• Corporate Authors:

  Chilton Company, Incorporated

  One Chilton Way
  Philadelphia, PA  United States  19089
• Authors:
  • Gottesman, C A
• Publication Date: 1976-8

Media Info

• Features: Figures; Photos;
• Pagination: p. 35-37
• Serial:
  • Volume: 155
  • Issue Number: 2

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Diesel engines; Fuel consumption; Hybrid vehicles; Maneuverability; Pollutants; Steam engines; Taxicabs; Vehicle capacity; Vehicle design; Wheelchairs
• Old TRIS Terms: Emission rates
• Subject Areas: Design; Energy; Highways; Planning and Forecasting; Public Transportation; Vehicles and Equipment;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00141301
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Nov 17 1981 12:00AM