Twelve years ago today, in 1999, the last iconic checker cab was retired from service. The checker cabs, which first appeared on New York City’s streets during the 1920′s, became a symbol of 20th century urban life, and today you can still find kitschy souvenirs based on their design. However, the large, old cabs were not fuel efficient and production stopped during the 1980′s. Recently, the city announced a “Taxi of Tomorrow” competition, in order to solicit designs for a new taxi fleet from automobile manufacturers. The winning design, the Nissan NV 200, looks nothing like the current fleet but is bringing the checkers back.
- Amanda Pickering
No Comments | Posted on July 26, 2011 | Categories: From the Blog, History, Only in New York
