New Renault Taxicab Features.
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Some 15 months ago in our issue dated 21st December, 1911, pages 327-8, we were able to give our readers first particulars ot the first four-cylinder Renault taxicab chassis to be shipped to this country. The distinctive feature of the machine, some of our readers may remember, was the fitting of a fourcylinder engine, and additionally one or two constructional modifications in the chassis had been effected. It was generally recognized by users that., " given a fourcylinder engine in place of a two," the Renault"taxicab would prove even more successful than had previously been the case. We are now in a position to deal with the very latest model of this typeto be turned out by this wellknown French maker, For the purpose of gaining this knowledge we inspected one of the chassis at the works of Robert Bell, Ltd., 45, Horseferry Road, Westminster. The new model differs essentially from the previous four-cylinder type in that a larger engine is now fitted ; also there are one or two tmodifications and improvements !which mark good engine design, and which tend to keep the machine well in the front rank. The cylinders are still cast en bloc, but the bore and stroke have been increased to 75 mm. by 120 mm. respectively, the R.A.C. rating be ing 13.9 h.p. The valves, which are interchangeable, are now provided with adjustable tappets, and suitable cover-plates serve to keep • grit and dirt away from the valve sterns, while giving the engine at the same time a very neat appearance. Each cover is readily detachable by means of a single locking handle. The illustration herewith shows this latest improve ment, as well as the modification to the induction pipe lead. It will also be noticed how accessible are the valve tappets for adjustment whenever necessary. The carburetter is of the usual Renault pattern, but on these new models it is fitted to the near side of the engine. An air-throttle control-lever operated by hand from the front of the chassis facilitates the starting up ut the engine. Bosch hightension magneto is fitted, and is placed in a very accessible position
m front of the engine. Enginecooling is by means of thermosyphon circulation, the Renault radiator, of course, being fitted, so maintaining the well-known contour of bonnet which is a distinctive feature of this maker's machines. The bonnet on these latest models has been lengthened by 3 ins., giving the machine, so say the makers, a more distinguished appearance.
Concerning the transmission and live-axle drive, there had been no departure, we found, from the last model we described. We noticed, however, that specially long and flexible rear springs have been fitted, which should ensure very easy riding. The wheelbase, turning lock, and ground clearance, of course, conform to the requirements of Scotland Yard. The road wheels are of artillery pattern and are all mounted on ball bearings. The size of the tires is 810 mm. by 90 mm.
'When we queried the fuel consumption of these machines, Mr. Robert Bell informed us that every model has to undergo a consumption test of 20 m.p.g., before being sold. "The engine will do anything in reason," the gentleman continued. "Only last week we ran up Fitzjohn's Avenue, Hampstead, with the driver and two passengers up, on top speed, and that is a long, weary climb, as you know."
We were informed that one of these models will be staged at the forthcoming Olympia Show. Mr. Robert Bell further informed us that he is in a position tO sell this machine either as a chassis or as a complete cab, on cash terms or by hire-purchase.
Designed primarily for use as a taxicab, there is quite an opening for a machine of this description in light delivery-van work.