New York is often seen as one of the most advanced and modern cities in the world. But with an aging infrastructure, heavy congestion and polluted air, ways to ensure it keeps up with other major cities have been sought for some time. Before the economic crisis, Mayor Bloomberg and others had a whole raft of plans ready that would tackle these problems and for a time, things were looking rosy.

But then 2008 reared its ugly head and although it didn’t happen for some time, budgets crucial for the success of these projects were in jeopardy. Indeed, a great many plans were scrapped as the US Government looked for ways to cut its huge budget deficit.

Luckily for the citizens of New York and anyone else who visits the city, a new range of taxis will be one of the measures that survived the axe. The Nissan NV200, a car purpose built for the task of being the New York taxi cab for the 21st century, will begin to replace the iconic Ford Crown Victorias, which for so long graced the streets of the Big Apple.

And the difference between the two couldn’t be more pronounced. Although New York’s cab drivers might wonder how much more frequently they’ll have to call their vehicle breakdown insurance provider, the new Nissans will set a new benchmark for emission levels. And with so many cabs driving around the city on a daily basis, it is bound to make a huge difference to the quality of air in the city.

It’s true to say that the new car will never look quite as impressive in backdrops to movies in the way that the Crown Victorias did, but they are sure to make a measurable difference to locals and visitors alike who will enjoy noticeably cleaner air.