Electric Mobility Partnership: Kia Europe and Uber Announce Milestone Venture!

Kia Europe and Uber have launched a significant electric mobility partnership that will speed the adoption of advanced zero-emission battery electric vehicles across Europe, making cities greener and quieter.

Kia will provide its high-tech line of battery electric cars (BEVs) to Uber drivers, including the e-Niro and e-Soul, as part of the collaboration. With special offers included, Kia may be on the road to becoming the top provider of EVs to the e-hailing sector.

As part of Kia's Plan S strategy, which was unveiled earlier this year, eco-friendly vehicles are anticipated to account for 40% of the brand's global sales by the end of 2030. Kia is also on track to meet its global yearly sales target of 880,000 EVs and 1.6 million eco-friendly vehicles.

A core element of the Plan S strategy is focusing on BEVs - which Kia aims to reinforce its portfolio with 11 new BEVs by 2026, seven of which will be developed on the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). It is reported that the new additions will include a range of passenger vehicles, SUVs and MPVs across several segments. 

Uber also intends to minimise its carbon footprint, to be a zero-emission mobility platform throughout Europe by 2030. In addition, by 2025, the company hopes to have more than 100,000 BEVs operating on its European platform. Zero-emission cars will be piloted in seven major European cities: Amsterdam, Berlin, Brussels, Lisbon, London, Madrid, and Paris.

To promote the usage of BEVs, Kia and Uber will develop joint marketing and educational campaigns for Uber drivers. Test drives will also be available to allow drivers to experience the vehicles first-hand. 

“This exciting partnership with Uber heralds another important milestone for BEVs and sustainable zero-emission mobility in Europe. Ensuring that the air is clean in congested city and town centres and ensuring these spaces are quiet and free from vehicle noise pollution is at the very top of our agenda. This important partnership with Uber is a significant step forward in realising that goal, and we are very proud to be able to offer our advanced BEV range, starting with the e-Niro and e-Soul models.”  said Kia Europe president Jason Jeong.

“We’re proud to be working with Kia to make sure drivers across Europe have access to best-in-class electric vehicles at an affordable price. Zero-emissions mobility is more than just an aim for us – it’s a necessity. As Europe continues to reopen, we are committed to playing our part in cleaning up urban transport, so this partnership is crucial in our efforts to advance the electrification of our platform across Europe by 2030.” added EMEA, Uber regional general manager Anabel Diaz. 

Reportedly, Kia and Uber will strengthen the strategic alliance by offering high-tech BEVs in 20 European markets as demand grows.