Kia Corporation’s European unit and Uber Technologies Inc. announced that they had formed a strategic electric mobility partnership. The two companies partnered to further advance battery electric vehicle (BEV) adoption across European nations.
Under the partnership, Kia would offer its advanced BEV range to Uber drivers, including the e-Niro and e-Soul models. Kia has also been forming mobility partnerships as part of its recently unveiled Plan S. Moreover, Plan S aims to make environmental-friendly car models take around 40% of Kia’s global sales by 2030.
Kia plans to reach an 800,000-EV unit and a 1.6 million-eco-friendly unit global annual sales before the decade ends. Also, Kia would introduce 11 new E-GMP-based BEV models by 2026, further promoting its global vehicle lineup. Some of the models under this plan would include MPVs and SUVs with high-speed charging and other industry-leading technologies.
Offering Firsthand BEV Experience
Meanwhile, Uber aims to intensely decrease carbon emissions and become a zero-emission European mobility platform by 2030. Uber’s outline also targets to install over 100,000 BEVs to its European sector by 2025.
Kia and Uber would launch educational and marketing campaigns encouraging BEV usage among Uber drivers. The two companies would also provide test drives, enabling drivers to experience Kia’s zero-emission BEVs firsthand.
Kia’s e-Niro incorporates all-electric practicality and zero-emission functionality with sleek body designs. The BEV model’s cabin also features advanced infotainment tech, modern design, cutting-edge connectivity, and a spacious interior. Additionally, e-Niro’s lithium-ion polymer battery uses a 100kW ultra-fast charger.
“This exciting partnership with Uber heralds another important milestone for BEVs and sustainable zero-emission mobility in Europe,” said Jason Jeong, Kia Europe’s President. Jeong also said that Kia’s top agenda is to ensure that air in congested cities and town centers is clean.
The South Korean carmaker also aims to keep these places clean and quiet, freeing them from vehicular noise pollution. According to Kia, the Uber partnership significantly advances its environmental policies, including minimizing gas emissions and promising a sustainable future.
Cab-Hailing Sector Support
Kia also vowed to ensure Uber drivers across Europe could access high-performing BEVs at reasonable prices. Due to Europe’s reopening, Uber and Kia plan to provide green urban transportation and complete their electrification platforms by 2030.
Furthermore, the Uber partnership strengthens Kia’s position as a leading electrified vehicle provider to the cab-hailing sector. In addition to Kia’s new move, its parent company, Hyundai Motor had also been actively increasing its European market ventures.
In particular, Hyundai teamed up with Uber to accelerate Europe’s EV adoption in April. Hyundai also provided more sustainable transit solutions by giving Uber drivers access to discounted IONIQ Electric and Kona Electric models.
