The Ford Transit Connect van may not be the prettiest of vehicles, but its utilitarian charm has helped it become the vehicle of choice for an array of vocations. Soon you’ll even be able to hitch a ride on all-new Transit Connect Taxis.
Boston will be the first municipality in the U.S. to approve the Transit Connect for use as a taxi. Officials have cited the vehicle’s size, configuration, and its general comfort, as reasons for being the perfect new vehicle for the taxi industry.
“We’re very impressed with the Transit Connect,” said Mark Cohen, director, Licensing Division, Boston Police Department. “It’s the closest thing to a purpose-built vehicle for taxi use that I’ve seen in 25 years.”
The 2011 Ford Transit Connect Taxi is powered by a fuel-efficient 2.0-liter four cylinder engine mated to an automatic transmission. Fuel economy is estimated to deliver a 30 percent improvement over current taxis. Ford will also offer packages that will allow the Transit Connect Taxi to be converted to run on either compressed natural gas or liquefied propane gas.
“The size, shape and configuration of the Transit Connect make it comfortable for both driver and passengers,” said Mark Cohen, director, Licensing Division, Boston Police Department. “When the Ford Crown Victoria goes out of production next year the taxi industry here in Boston and throughout the country is going to be looking for alternatives. I think the Transit Connect Taxi fits the bill.”
Boston is likely to be just the first of many cities that will soon adopt the Transit Connect Taxi. Ford has long been the leader in the taxi business, with vehicles such as the Crown Victoria and Escape Hybrid. The award-winning Transit Connect will no doubt continue that industry dominance.
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