Kia Europe has entered a new partnership with Uber to provide up to 30,000 discounted electric vehicles (EVs) by 2030.

The deal will see Kia’s electric cars – including the e-Niro and e-Soul – supplied to Uber drivers at a discounted rate.

Uber plans to become a zero-emission mobility platform across Europe by 2030. It is targeting more than 100,000 BEVs across its European platform by 2025, with 50% of the miles driven in seven European capitals (Amsterdam, Berlin, Brussels, Lisbon, London, Madrid and Paris) to be in zero emission vehicles by that time.

Anabel Diaz, regional general manager for EMEA at Uber, said: “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.”

As part of the partnership’s wider remit, Kia and Uber will develop joint marketing and educational campaigns to further promote EVs to Uber drivers. Kia will also offer test-drives to allow drivers to experience the brand´s zero-emissions vehicles first-hand.

“This exciting partnership with Uber heralds another important milestone for BEVs and sustainable zero-emissions mobility in Europe,” Jason Jeong, president at Kia Europe, said.

“Making sure that the air is clean in congested city and town centres – as well as 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.”