Ford, the leading provider of taxis in America, is using the Transit Connect to offer a fresh take on cabs in the Big Apple. The Connect Taxi Concept employs technology that could revolutionise the industry.

Noticeable from the off is a futuristic interpretation of the yellow "taxi bubble". The space-age looking flat-panel unit, mounted horizontally above the Taxi Concept's roof, is lit on all four sides — green if the cab is available, orange if it's occupied.

The Concept's standard high-roof van offers ample headroom, accentuated by a vista roof that provides views of the urban architecture.

The Taxi Concept also features a new electronic infotainment and navigation system that shows passengers their cab fare, and a scrolling news, weather, sports and stock ticker. Using the 13-inch touch screen, passengers can select their choice of video and music channels, follow the taxi's journey on a map or scroll through a list of points of interest along the route.

Once at the destination, the screen displays the fare with payment options. Cardholders can swipe their card, enter a pin number for debit, calculate the tip and complete the transaction from their seat. Cash-paying passengers can use "Sputnik," a rotating aluminum orb that replaces the outdated sliding ashtray used in today's taxis.

The in-dash computer, powered by Microsoft Auto, provides full high-speed internet access and works with Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones.

The Transit Connect will come to the US in 2009, as a brand-new offering for small business owners seeking fuel-efficient, flexible transportation with plenty of room.

The Transit Connect range is available in Ireland from €14,970.

http://www.independent.ie/lifestyle/motoring/all-hail-the-spaceage-taxi-1325396.html