Autoblog

Those of you in the Big Apple waiting for a cab while reading your favorite automotive news site may have noticed that you're able to get through a few more articles than normal. Why? A sizable number of New York cabbies have called it quits today in a general strike that began at 5 AM this morning and will continue through Friday.

The two-day strike is a reaction to new regulations that drivers complain will cost them money and invade their privacy. Back in 2004, N.Y.'s Taxi and Limousine Commission required all cabs to come equipped with new systems, including credit card readers and GPS devices, which could cost upwards of $6,000.

The Cabbies contest that the implementation of these systems, originally designed to track drivers and help fares find lost property, is too cost prohibitive, and since drivers normally lease their cars, the money would come directly out of their pockets. Additionally, the credit card readers would take about five-percent of each fare charged.

Inspection of vehicles will begin October 1 and run through January 31 of next year, at which time all New York cabs are required to be sporting the new systems. Delays over the next few days are already happening, so if you aren't already familiar with it, now's a good time to learn the subway system.

[Source: New York Times]

Despite the fact our credit card debt is anything but mini, at least we can now have the iconic brand emblazoned across the face of our plastic. MINI has news of another new credit card, this one a VISA, upon the face of which cardholders can customize a MINI to their liking. Of course, in order to pimp the MINI you've got to apply for the card, which when used earns MINI Motoring Rewards that can be used towards buying the real thing or various other items having to do with MINI mania.

If you'd like to apply for the MYMINI Card click here.

Check out some sample cards, pics of the customization process and MINI's press release after the jump...

[Source: MINI]

BMW and MINI have cozied up with American Express to offer co-branded credit cards with an awards program through which they can win fabulous BMW/MINI-related trips and prizes. Looks like it might be only for Great Britain, so let's hope the two companies extend this gig stateside ASAP.

Merely getting the card scores cardholders 10 entries, then users get one entry for every 10 pounds spent, two entries for every ten pounds spent at a gas station, and three entries for every ten pounds spent at a BMW or MINI dealership. The prizes are pretty sweet, too -- winners can drive the new BMW 3-series coupe back from the European press launch or take a luxury vacation in Los Angeles. Smaller prizes include things like watches, apparel, etc. A minimum of 50 prizes are drawn each month.

Follow the jump for a pic of the MINI Amex card...

[Source: Financial News]

UPDATE: Pics added