Kia partners with BraunAbility to unveil electric wheelchair-accessible taxi concept at New York Auto Show
- Perry Richardson
- Apr 3
- 2 min read
Kia Corporation has announced a collaboration with BraunAbility to develop an electric wheelchair-accessible vehicle (WAV) based on its upcoming PV5 platform, with the concept set to debut at the New York International Auto Show.
The PV5 WAV concept, designed to meet Americans with Disabilities Act requirements, is positioned as a potential first-of-its-kind electric taxi and rideshare vehicle tailored specifically for wheelchair users in the US market. The model aims to address two core priorities shaping future urban mobility, reducing vehicle emissions and improving accessibility across passenger transport services.
The concept builds on Kia’s purpose-built vehicle (PBV) strategy, with the PV5 underpinned by a dedicated electric platform engineered to support vehicle conversions from the outset. According to the companies, this approach is intended to reduce the technical complexity typically associated with WAV modifications while helping conversion partners maintain quality and control costs, a key consideration for fleet operators and mobility providers.
Kia and BraunAbility have incorporated several design features aimed at operational practicality in taxi and private hire use cases. These include a low step height to ease entry for passengers and wheelchair users, alongside integrated tiedowns and occupant restraint systems designed to be permanently available, enabling a consistent and compliant securement process for drivers.
PV5-based WAV concept signals push into accessible, zero-emission taxi and rideshare markets in the United States
The collaboration reflects growing demand for accessible vehicle solutions within large urban transport systems, particularly in cities such as New York City, where regulatory pressure and customer expectations are driving change. The partners plan to conduct real-world evaluations in the city, engaging with government agencies, fleet operators and disability advocacy groups to refine the vehicle’s design and operational suitability.
The development signals a potential shift in the economics of WAV deployment. Purpose-built electric platforms could reduce conversion costs and downtime compared with retrofitted internal combustion engine vehicles, while also aligning with tightening emissions regulations and sustainability targets across major US cities.
The unveiling took place at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in Manhattan during the 2026 New York International Auto Show, with press previews held on 1 and 2 April and public access running from 3 to 12 April. The concept serves as a test case for Kia’s broader ambitions in the accessible mobility and electrified commercial vehicle sectors, although no production timeline has been confirmed.
Sangdae Kim, Executive Vice President and Head of PBV Division at Kia Corporation, said: “Kia’s collaboration with BraunAbility benefits those involved, expanding the existing product portfolios of both companies in the U.S. market, while aiming to offer greater quality and choice to vehicle operators and improved mobility to WAV users.
“I can think of no better place to unveil our production-ready concept than one of the most iconic taxi markets in the world, and Kia is looking forward to continually collaborating with BraunAbility on the PV5 WAV offer sustainable mobility to more users.”
Craig Schrimsher, BraunAbility Americas President, said: “For years, New York has been told it has to choose between zero tailpipe emission vehicles and accessibility. The PV5 WAV is proof that the same taxi can deliver both, by combining Kia’s dedicated EV platform with BraunAbility’s wheelchair-accessible design leadership.”
