The first generation Kia Niro EV continues to be a special zero-emission taxi for the home market of Korea

As a redesigned second generation Squad 2023 Niro Looking to hit U.S. dealerships this fall, Kia isn’t just going to stop offering the first-generation Niro EV.

Instead, the first generation is very popular Niro EVmay have Green Car Report’ Best car to buy if it had been more widely available from the start, is seeing a second (new) life as a cab model — called the Niro Plus.

To launch the Niro Plus, Kia says it has extended the Niro EV’s length by 10 mm (0.4 in) and height by 80 mm (3.1 in), with a “retractable structure” plus seats and thinner doors. completely help to expand the space for passengers.

Kia hasn’t noted anything different in terms of the Niro EV’s specs, so it’s likely the Plus continues with a single permanent-magnet motor in the front wheels, making 201 hp and torque. 291 lb-ft of torque. The 64 kWh battery pack delivers an EPA-rated 239 miles, though at lower speeds it should perform better than that.

Niro Plus versions also get a new All-in-One display that places taxi functions right on the screen as part of the infotainment screen.

Kia Niro Plus – dedicated electric taxi

Plus is not too cumbersome with this equipment package, as it is not only for round-the-clock urban taxi duties. Kia hopes some of them will fill a need for essentially executive cars that will be used for commuting to work during the week and then retreating or going out for the weekend.

Kia says the Niro Plus is the brand’s first “specialized vehicle” (PBV) for mobility services — in this case, Kia’s native Korean fleets or taxi operators.

The Niro Plus comes ahead of Kia’s dedicated PBV launching in 2025 which Kia says “will be similar in size to a mid-size car, with inherent expandability.” It follows Ray Van, a “single-seater van” positioned for small freight services — and yes, regarding Kia Ray EVan electric kei-like product for Kia’s home market.

Kia Niro Plus – dedicated electric taxi

Although the Plus is intended for South Korea, Kia notes that it will also be available in “some overseas markets”. And we’ll soon see even more “purpose-built” electric vehicles for taxi duty—Arrival’s EV is designed for Uberfor example.

Would a Niro EV-based taxi or car make sense in many urban environments around the globe? We think so.