Q 01/05

What device, first invented in the late 19th century, calculates taxi fares based on distance and time?

A) Odometer

B) Chronometer

C) Speedometer

D) Taximeter

Answer · why

D) Taximeter

The modern taximeter, which calculates fares based on distance traveled and waiting time, was invented by Wilhelm Bruhn in 1891, standardizing fare ca...

Q 02/05

Which city saw the first gasoline-powered taxis begin operation in 1899?

A) London

B) New York City

C) Paris

D) Berlin

Answer · why

C) Paris

Gasoline-powered taxicabs began operating in Paris in 1899, followed by London in 1903, and New York in 1907.

Q 03/05

One etymology traces the 'hackney' cab to the French 'haquenée', which meant what?

A) A type of coach

B) A horse for hire

C) A licensing official

D) A specific street

Answer · why

B) A horse for hire

The origin is disputed: many attribute the word to the London borough of Hackney, while others favour the French haquenée, an easy-riding horse that w...

Q 04/05

In what year did New York City order every medallion taxi painted yellow?

A) 1937

B) 1954

C) 1967

D) 1971

Answer · why

C) 1967

The order was aimed at unofficial 'gypsy' cabs: a single mandatory colour made licensed cabs instantly recognisable on the street.

Q 05/05

Who played the main character, Travis Bickle, in the 1976 film 'Taxi Driver'?

A) Al Pacino

B) Robert De Niro

C) Dustin Hoffman

D) Jack Nicholson

Answer · why

B) Robert De Niro

Robert De Niro starred as Travis Bickle, the antihero protagonist of Martin Scorsese's 1976 film 'Taxi Driver.'