Transit Connect Taxi Approved for Use in the New York City

Since the Ford Crown Victoria has been scrapped from New York City's fleet of yellow cabs, it was time for a change. Following a battle against Nissan’s NV200 and the Karsan V1, it was the Ford Transit Connect taxicab that passed the tests with flying colors, and will form Big Apples’ taxi fleet. In addition, the Ford Taurus also was approved for use.

New York joins Boston, Chicago and Philadelphia on the list of big cities where officials have approved Transit Connect Taxi for use.

The approval in New York comes less than a month after the compressed natural gas (CNG) version of the Transit Connect Taxi was approved by the California Air Resources Board for use in California.

“Approval from the TLC is significant because it allows Ford the opportunity to offer New York City taxi operators and the riding public a taxi that is comfortable, durable, provides excellent fuel efficiency and delivers it all in a much smaller footprint that helps with congestion,” said Kevin Koswick, director, Ford North American Fleet Operations.

The Transit Connect Taxi is certified to Ford Light Commercial Vehicle Durability Standards, while suspension components and the underbody structure have passed requirements for potholes and curbs. Also, the 39-foot turning diameter makes it easier to handle tight spots.

With its standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder gas engine and automatic transmission, the conventionally powered Transit Connect delivers a best-in-class 23 mpg combined, an estimated 30 percent improvement in fuel efficiency versus many of today’s traditional taxis. Ford also offers engine prep packages that allow conversions to CNG and LPG (liquefied propane gas).