Kia Motors announced an innovative new modular electric vehicle platform called PBV (Platform Beyond Vehicle) at CES 2024, designed to enable multiple body types and use cases all built on the same basic electric skateboard chassis. The automaker has signed its first major customer for these transformable EVs — ridehailing giant Uber.

The two companies signed a memorandum of understanding for Uber to potentially add thousands of Kia’s new PBV-based PV5 electric vans to its network for drivers. The mid-sized PV5 van is one of several configurations that can be built on Kia’s flexible PBV architecture.

For Uber, the modular design and electric powerplant align perfectly with its sustainability commitments and evolving transportation needs. Uber pledged to transition all rides to electric vehicles by 2040 across North America and Europe. However, deals like this with automakers are crucial to make that vision a reality.

The PV5 vans would give Uber drivers a purpose-built option for ridehailing, with features tailored specifically for that use case. Kia and Uber plan to collaborate on integrating technology and services to benefit drivers and passengers. This could include amenities like charging ports, Wi-Fi hotspots, entertainment screens and more.

Uber has already partnered with other automakers like GM to offer EV incentives and financing options to transition drivers toward electric vehicles. However, getting hundreds of thousands of independent contractor drivers to switch to EVs poses unique challenges. The potential Kia deal could be a blueprint for how ridehailing and autonomous driving partners can leverage flexible EV platforms in the future.

For Kia, scoring a major customer like Uber validates its new modular approach and positions the PBV platform for success across commercial transportation segments. The automaker says the platform also adapts to utility and delivery use cases with different swap-in interiors and cargo areas.

The PV5 vans for Uber would help accelerate emission reduction goals while giving drivers a customized ridehailing option. With electric, autonomous and ridesharing convergence accelerating, Kia’s transformer-like vans may soon become a ubiquitous sight in cities around the world.