Taxi Vending Machines Could Be in the Future

In a cosmopolitan city like New York, it’s impossible to avoid the constant onslaught of consumerism. We are perpetually bombarded with advertising and signage beckoning us to buy every doodad under the sun. There are few havens from the barrage. The backseat of the cab was once one of these places, that is until television screens (and soon iPads) began infiltrating the vehicles. It could get worse if this borderline brilliant idea comes to fruition. Seriously, it was only a matter of time before someone designed a portable vending machine for the taxi.

Business students Brian Shimmerlik and Tomas Grosskopf were victorious in the EDC’s “NYC Next Idea” contest with their TaxiTreats prototype. The idea here is simple: compact vending machines affixed to the backseat barrier in cabs that dispense small sundries like gum, headache medication, or possibly energy drinks (condoms would be a good idea too). Talk about morning after cures. The design arrives at the perfect time, just as the city is upgrading its fleet.

The cash prize was $17,500 in funding to help further develop the concept. Next up is figuring out whether payment is separate or part of the overall fare, as well as convincing the Taxi & Limousine Commission the idea is sound.

How do you feel about such vending machines in cabs?

[via Gizmodo]