The iconic Premier Padmini taxi that has been a common sight in Mumbai in India will no longer be seen on the roads. October 30 was the last day that the taxis were allowed to be used as the model, adapted from the Fiat 1100 in the early 1960s, has reached the 20-year limit (from the final unit registered) for taxis in the city.
There were up to 63,000 Padmini taxis at one time (in the late 1990s) but the number dropped to 40,000 units today. Their popularity was due to the durable engines and minimal maintenance. The boot was also large in relation to the small size of the car. However, after production ended in 2001, availability of parts diminished.
The Padmini was known locally as ‘Kaali Peeli (black and yellow) due to its colour scheme. The black colour on the lower half of the body was to hide dirt and stains, while the yellow roof would make the taxi more visible.
Those who have seen the taxis will also remember it having the unique feature of the meter outside the car. These were only on taxis without air-conditioning; the air-conditioned ones were usually blue in colour.
There are more choices for taxi operators to use today though those who have used the Padmini don’t think the modern cars can last as long as the 1960s model. While it can no longer be used as a taxi, continued use as a private car is still permitted.
