Kia Just Revealed an Electric Taxi Concept Built for Real Accessibility

Kia showed something a bit different at the New York Auto Show. Alongside the Seltos and EV3, it revealed the PV5 WAV Taxi and Rideshare concept.

This one is built with a clear purpose. It is a wheelchair-accessible vehicle developed with BraunAbility and meets ADA requirements. The idea is simple: show how an electric van like the PV5 can work as a proper taxi or rideshare option.

Details are still limited. Kia has only shared one low-quality image, which does not say much about timing or production plans. From what is visible, it wears a classic yellow and black taxi look, with wheelchair graphics across the body.

The key part sits at the back. The liftgate opens to reveal a ramp that folds out from the rear. Inside, there are integrated tiedowns and restraints, and the floor sits low enough to make entry easier for wheelchair users.

Kia says the concept is built with production in mind. It will be tested in New York, where taxi and rideshare demand is high. The plan includes working with city officials, fleet operators, and accessibility groups to refine it based on real feedback.

Underneath, it follows the standard PV5 setup. It runs on the E-GMP.S platform and uses a front motor with 161 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. Battery options include 43.3, 51.5, and 71.2 kWh packs.

There is already a version of this idea in Korea. The PV5 WAV Taxi there starts at $33,768 (₩51,100,000) and has a range of up to 214 miles (345 km). That version uses a side ramp, while this concept goes for a rear-entry setup.

It is still early, but the direction is clear. Kia is looking at real use cases, not just design exercises, and this one targets a gap that does not get much attention.