Skip to main content

Digi Technologies power zero-emissions London cab

US-based provider of machine-to-machine (M2M) and IoT connectivity products and services Digi International has supplied its Digi ConnectCore 6 (Digi CC6) system-on-module to drive Ecotive's Range Extended Electric (REE) Metrocab taxi – said to be the only zero-emissions-capable black cab currently operating in London. The taxi's core powertrain and infotainment systems, which have been developed by Frazer-Nash Research, use the Digi CC6 to drive the Metrocab's entire driver instrumentation and passenger
June 27, 2016 Read time: 2 mins
US-based provider of machine-to-machine (M2M) and IoT connectivity products and services Digi International has supplied its Digi ConnectCore 6 (Digi CC6) system-on-module to drive Ecotive's Range Extended Electric (REE) Metrocab taxi – said to be the only zero-emissions-capable black cab currently operating in London.

The taxi's core powertrain and infotainment systems, which have been developed by Frazer-Nash Research, use the Digi CC6 to drive the Metrocab's entire driver instrumentation and passenger displays. Frazer-Nash utilises the module in processing information from the drivetrain to the instrument display and in providing wireless connectivity to deliver real-time information, application updates and a more interactive driver and passenger experience.

The taxi is driven by two electric motors with a 1-litre petrol engine coupled with a generator (the range extender) which charges the battery pack. Alternatively, charging can be achieved via any mains outlet, ensuring lower fuel consumption. This configuration, and the sophistication of the powertrain, allows the driver many charging options to maximise their efficiency. The Digi CC6 has been designed to prov

ide a fuller array of instrumentation, providing information on drive mode, speed, fuel economy and battery state of charge. It also provides trip information, distance, level of emissions and general information such as time, temperature, location via GPS and live weather reports.

The Digi CC6 also processes and powers an infotainment system that offers drivers Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) radio, FM radio, CD player, MP3, satellite navigation and an in-cab gaming system. For passengers, a rear display and wi-fi connectivity allow for smart phone mirroring and internet access. The rear display can also be used for location-aware advertisements, creating a new revenue source for taxi drivers.

Related Content

  • US Cities push for smarter poles
    June 25, 2018
    US Cities The need to connect existing infrastructure has led various US transit authorities into imaginative alleyways: David Crawford examines some new roles for street furniture. US cities are vying with each other in developing schemes to create a new generation of connected places. Their strategies include taking advantage of their streetlight poles’ height and ubiquity to give them new roles in supporting intelligent nodes. They are now being equipped for collecting real-time data on key transport
  • Connected Kerb installs charging infrastructure for EVs in London
    April 30, 2019
    Connected Kerb has launched its public kerbside charging infrastructure for electric vehicles (EV) in the London borough of Southwark. The project, which is set for a city-wide rollout, stems from an agreement with Southwark Council and electricity infrastructure provider National Grid. The fibre broadband and wireless kerbsides, powered by Virgin Media, offer internet connectivity to EV drivers. Also, the solution provides environmental and traffic monitoring data for public authorities. Richard Li
  • Growth of ITS market 2013 to 2019
    April 22, 2014
    According to the latest report from Transparency Market Research, the intelligent transportation systems (ITS) market is expected to reach a value of US$30.2 billion by 2019, at a CAGR of 11.1 per cent from 2013 to 2019. The demand of ITS systems is rising globally due to increased congestion in metropolitan areas. Development and deployment of intelligent transportation system not only reduces traffic, but also reduces number of accidents and improves quality of life by controlling vehicle emission leve
  • UST Global and Net4Things to launch IoT solutions in Europe and Latin America
    February 28, 2018
    Ust Global has partnered with Net4Things to offer vertical Internet of Things solutions in Spain, Portugal, Brazil, Chile, Colombia and Peru. The project aims to allow service providers to receive consulting services and support from Ust Global while they launch a new business line. Both companies will also develop the Global Connected Car Platform to help enable wireless carriers to be part of the Connected Car Ecosystem. It is said to generate additional revenues beyond connectivity with business modules