California Yellow Cab Chooses the Transit Connect

Ford’s Transit Connect Taxi package – which goes into production and arrives in dealerships later this year, is on its way to become a success in the taxi service. For example, the California Yellow Cab company already put in an order for 25 units. In fact, company president Tim Conlon says it has potential to be "the iconic taxi of the future."

Another reason for choosing this Ford model is the Transit Connect's alternative fuel engine prep package, which enables conversion to efficient, clean-burning compressed natural gas (CNG) or propane (LPG, or liquefied petroleum gas).

Both CNG and LPG are popular among taxi operators because of their low cost of ownership. California Yellow Cab of Santa Ana will convert its Transit Connects to CNG.

"California Yellow Cab started to use natural gas in 2002 before there were many refueling stations," Conlon said in a release. "Now that the infrastructure has built up, we'll be able to help protect Orange County's air quality even more with the Transit Connect. It's a perfect fit for our drivers, and its roomy, easy-to-access interior will appeal to our customers as well."

Inside, the Transit Connect is well suited for both taxi service and conversion to CNG and LPG. The vehicle's 135 cubic feet of cargo space accommodates a compressed gas tank while leaving ample passenger legroom and cargo capacity. Additional climate control ventilation has been added for rear seat passengers.

"Transit Connect already has proven it offers tremendous versatility for commercial fleet use," said Gerry Koss, Ford fleet marketing manager. "The Transit Connect Taxi, combined with the capability for CNG/LPG conversion, further demonstrates its flexibility."