Outside of London’s ubiquitous TX4, the purpose-built taxi is almost dead. Checker is long gone and Ford Crown Victorias now grace New York’s congested streets. It’s more to do with economics than anything else: why build something new and unique when you can modify an existing vehicle?
In a similar vein to Volkswagen’s Milano Taxi, independent designer Slavche Tanevski has produced this design study for the Mercedes-Benz Nimbus, a city cab for the year 2025. Tenvski claims that he created the Nimbus as a tribute to the world’s first motorised taxi, the 1897 Daimler Victoria. You can see a few of the Victoria’s styling cues reflected in the flowing, almost liquid-like curves of the former.
Brought to life during Tanevski’s internship at Mercedes’ Exterior Design Studio, the Nimbus features an electric motor mounted at each wheel hub powered by lithium ion batteries beneath the floor. This compact arrangement helps it comfortably accommodate three adults and their luggage or up to five adults without luggage.
All and all, I think it’s a solid effort. Don’t take my word for it though, have a look at the gallery and let us know what you think in the comments below.
By Tristan Hankins
Designer: Slavche Tanevski , Via: Yankodesign
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