Next-generation Ford Transit dubbed taxi of the future

Ford introduced its redesigned 2014 Transit Taxi, which features increased passenger and cargo space, claimed “livery-duty durability,” and lower operating costs.

The 2014 Transit comes with a new 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine and a six-speed automatic transmission. The transmission is expected to deliver best-in-class highway fuel economy.

Transit Connect will feature an optional compressed natural gas/liquefied petroleum gas engine prep package. Converting the Transit Connect to run on CNG/LPG should result in significant fuel cost savings.

The redesigned taxi will also feature decreased vehicle height. It can also be modified to be wheelchair accessible through Ford's Qualified Vehicle Modifier program.

Technology for the driver will be upgraded. Some new features include a rearview camera, 6.5-inch touch-screen display complete with navigation, and SYNC with MyFord Touch.

The 2014 Transit Connect Taxi is set to go into production soon and will arrive in dealerships sometime early next year.

By Natalie Sejnost