The man behind the project, Klaus Bischoff (Head of Design at Volkswagen), was present in Central London earlier today to reveal the car. The Concept, which measures 3,730 mm (12 ft 2 in) in length, 1,680 mm (5 ft 6 in) in width and 1,600 mm (5 ft 3 in) in height, is shorter than the current smallest Volkswagen, the Fox. Despite the small size, it offers a spacious cabin with room for two adults to be seated in comfort (in the back) plus an allocated area for luggage, thanks to its long wheelbase and minimal front and rear overhangs.
The 45 kWh onboard batteries offer enough juice to the engine in order for it to generate a maximum power output of 113 hp. Top speed for the Taxi Concept is rate at 74 mph (119 km/h), while the estimated range on a full charge is an impressive 186 miles (300 km). What’s more, an 80 percent charge takes around one hour to complete.
At the front, the driving feel is spacious, thanks to the large glass area. The major functions of the vehicle including climate, entertainment and fare information, which are all grouped onto one touchscreen display mounted next to the driver. A similar screen relays information to the passengers in the back on their route and their immediate environment.
The Taxi Concept clearly takes its styling cues from the UP!, Space UP! and Space UP! Blue concept cars and features details such as the silver Union Jack on the roof and the City of London’s coat of arms on either side of the vehicle, as well as on the dashboard.
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