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TLC To Vote On Modified 'Taxi Of Tomorrow' Plan

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- New York City's Taxi and Limousine Commission is set to vote Thursday on moving ahead with the "Taxi of Tomorrow."

Thursday's vote is expected to bring the TLC's plan into compliance with city law by allowing hybrid alternatives after a judge ruled last month that the new Nissan NV200 cabs were illegal because they are not yet offered in a hybrid version.

TLC To Vote On Modified 'Taxi Of Tomorrow' Plan

The commission announced in May that it would permit drivers to go on using certain hybrid vehicles for taxis until a hybrid NV200 is ready. TLC Commissioner David Yassky said a hybrid NV200 will be available in 2015.

The new taxi will feature all sorts of options for passengers to ride in comfort. It will have charging ports for electronic devices, more leg room, sliding doors, anti-microbial back seats, reading and foot lights and a panoramic see-through roof.

"This will be the iconic New York City vehicle," Yassky said. "A big step forward in comfort for taxi passengers and for safety."

All current taxis will be off the streets by 2018. The new $29,000 cabs will get 25 miles per gallon.

The "Taxi of Tomorrow" is set to hit the city streets in October.

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