Title: Characteristics of a purpose-built next-generation Hong Kong taxi

Authors: Fred Han

Addresses: School of Design, V702i, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China

Abstract: This study examined characteristics of purpose-built taxis exclusive to Hong Kong (HK), and elicited design opportunities to facilitate superior passenger experience, driver comfort, and amenities. First, HK taxi operation as part of the public transportation system was reviewed, explicating the uniqueness of the business operation, and suggesting a design direction for the next generation of HK taxis. Second, two current HK taxicab models, the Toyota Crown Comfort and the BYD e6, were assessed through in-depth interviews with passengers and drivers. The assessment identified the needs of the two stakeholders (i.e., drivers and passengers) and their desired characteristics for future HK taxis. Finally, the results were analysed and aggregated into design criteria that should be considered by vehicle manufacturers seeking market opportunities in HK. Not only environmentally-friendly but also user-friendly features should be considered in future HK taxi designs to meet the needs of passengers, drivers, owners, and HK as a whole.

Keywords: Hong Kong; HK taxis; purpose-built vehicles; user experience; next-generation taxis; passenger experience; driver comfort; design criteria; environmentally-friendly features; user-friendly features; taxi design; vehicle design.

DOI: 10.1504/IJDE.2015.073844

International Journal of Design Engineering, 2015 Vol.6 No.1, pp.1 - 21

Received: 28 Aug 2014
Accepted: 25 Oct 2014
Published online: 24 Dec 2015 *

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