Fiat: Manzù cab as a pioneer of technology
WHAT A CAR Among the fascinating exhibits at the National Automobile Museum in Turin is the Fiat City Taxi, designed by Fiat 127 designer Manzù in 1968, which formed the basis for 15 patents. Until September 5, 2021, the Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile is hosting the exhibition "Che macchina!" The presentation is dedicated to the Fiat 127 (Gallery [...]
Until September 5, 2021, the Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile is showing the exhibition "Che macchina!". The presentation is dedicated to the Fiat 127 (gallery below right), which celebrates its 50th birthday this year.
The exhibition also pays tribute to the designer of the Fiat 127, Pio Manzoni - called Manzù. The name of the exhibition is taken from the advertising campaign for the Fiat 127 presented in 1971.
Concept vehicle and also idea carrier
An example of Manzù's talent is the Fiat City Taxi concept car, based on a Fiat 850, which is now part of the classic car collection and is usually on display in the multifunction room at Heritage in Turin.
The cab was a public transportation project that featured several technical innovations aimed at safety and functionality. Many of the technical innovations were later incorporated into production vehicles.
Power transmission according to the Idroconvert system
In view of its intended use in city traffic, the Idroconvert semi-automatic transmission was chosen for power transmission. The system, which was presented at the 1966 Geneva Motor Show, was based on a torque converter and a hydraulic clutch that was actuated by an actuating mechanism during gearshifts without the driver's intervention. This eliminated the clutch pedal but retained the four gears.
Typical is especially the asymmetric structure
However, the Fiat City Taxi also stood out due to the asymmetrical arrangement of the doors. On the left, there was only the driver's door. On the right, passengers entered and exited through an electrically operated sliding door. The rear seats of the Fiat City Taxi offered space for three passengers.
The realization of the exhibition in Turin is the result of the collaboration between the Manzoni Art & Design Foundation and the Heritage Department of Stellantis, responsible for the preservation and promotion of the historical heritage of the Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Lancia and Abarth brands.
