Could Jet Taxis Make Waves in NYC?

New York is often criticized for being a city that doesn’t take advantage of its waterfront location in the way that Chicago or Baltimore, for example, do. But with new developments like Brooklyn Bridge Park and ideas for floating pools, we are well on our way to becoming an aqua-fied metropolis.

But are we ready for the newest water transportation model, the jet taxi? Luca Solla and Pierpaolo Lazzarini of Italian-based company Jet Capsule are launching their 8-12-passenger vehicle in their home country in 2015, but expect other major cities around the world will want to get in on the action. They envision the jet functioning in hybrid, electric, private, personal, diving, and ambulance versions.

Officially called the ‘2015 Jet Taxi,’ the design has two rear carbon doors to maintain a constant interior temperature. It can reach a maximum speed of 32 knots and can sail with waves up to two meters. All of these features, along with its comparably light weight, make the vehicle operable in short- and medium-range transportation.

The jet taxi is equipped with a full navigation system, removable seats, and a self-draining cockpit.

Do you think the jet taxi would fare well on NYC’s waters? The bright orange color would certainly complement the current transportation citrus pallete of yellow and lime green cabs.

[Related: East River Skyway Will Bring Brooklyn Commuters to Manhattan in Under Four Minutes]

[Via designboom]

Images courtesy of Jet Capsule