Uber teams up with Kia
Uber has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Kia Corporation on developing and deploying purpose-built vehicles PBVs.
With the goal of enhancing electric vehicle (EV) offerings available on Uber’s mobility platform, the partnership will seek to produce the car maker’s PBVs optimised for private owners and fleets as part of Kia’s “platform beyond vehicle” strategy.
“PBVs will play a key role in the customisation of mobility,” says SeungKyu Yoon, president and chief executive officer of Kia North America. “By partnering with
Uber, Kia aims to deliver industry-leading technology with advanced software and services to enhance the ride-hailing experience.”
The MoU’s intends for Kia to identify optimal specifications for PBV models with the possible further integration of technology and services to benefit motorists and ride-hailing users.
The partnership’s goals also extend to the production of PBVs tailored to the needs of drivers using the Uber platform.
Sangdae Kim, head of Kia’s PBV division, says: “PBVs will play a key role in the transformation of mobility. This collaboration will enhance Kia’s PBV development with optimised vehicles for drivers’ and riders’ needs.
“This will focus on advanced software and services with the integration of interactive in-vehicle infotainment and advanced safety technology.”
New driver and passenger experiences could be facilitated by developing optimised connected-car experiences. Personalised riding environments and interactive rear-seat entertainment systems may follow.
Kia and Uber will collaborate on ways to moderate total cost-of-vehicle ownership by analysing various PBV options and offerings to reduce initial vehicle purchase costs.
And the application of Kia Connect diagnostic and preventive services will drive operational efficiencies by using data-driven solutions to detect signs of potential malfunctions, minimising maintenance outlay and downtime.
“Drivers on our platform are already EV early adopters, going electric six to seven times faster than the general population in the US and Europe,” says Susan Anderson, Uber’s vice-president and global head of business development.
“By teaming up with Kia and providing our insights, we aim to broaden the appeal and lower the cost of EVs, making them a more natural choice for more drivers.”
The PBV business will initially be based around the introduction of an all-new, modular vehicle called the Kia PV5, which is slated to be released in 2025.
While all variants will be based on the same modular versatility of the base model, each will offer unique characteristics with Uber-specific optimisations tailored for the ride-hailing market.
Pictured above are Sangdae Kim, head of Kia’s PBV division, SeungKyu Yoon, president and CEO of Kia North America, Susan Anderson, Uber’s vice-president and global head of business development, and Nishith Kumar, Uber’s director of global business development.
