When will we see a green taxi industry?

At first glance, it could be something from a sci-fi movie. Looking like a cross between a milk van and a smart car, the MX-Libris makes an immediate impact with its squat shape, white façade and glass door. Concept cars are notoriously off-the-wall, but this is neither a family car nor a sports car – this is a taxi.

Designed to be environmentally friendly, the car adopts green technologies beyond those seen in standard low-carbon cars. Every aspect of the MX-Libris has been carefully created to optimise efficiency and make it a zero-emissions model, from rain water collection to its bamboo floor.

The idea was developed by industrial designer Alberto Villarreal for a sustainable taxi competition in Mexico City. Though he didn’t win, he attracted interest from two separate companies looking to commercialise his design, which is constructed to take advantage of the area’s climate.

'I wanted to create an eco-friendly vehicle because I think all transport these days should be zero-emissions – especially for an urban vehicle, there is no need to use fuel anymore,' says Villarreal. 'The car...

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