Japanese automobile manufacturer Nissan Motor has won a US$1bn (est.) contract to provide the next generation of New York’s iconic yellow taxicab.
Based on Nissan NV200 design, the new NYC taxi, to be introduced in 2013, will have power outlets to plug in phones and laptops; a transparent roof for city views; exterior lights that warn cyclists and pedestrians about opening doors; airbags for passengers; and custom climate controls for each seat (what’s that?).
The Nissan minivan is also said to be very fuel-efficient. And perhaps the most important of all, it’s the cheapest among the three finalists in the billion dollar bid.
The NY Times made an interesting infograph showing the New York City’s taxicab design over the past century. Click image for full size pic…
