Revel, the Brooklyn-based electric rideshare company, is expanding its fleet by introducing the Kia Niro EVs alongside its existing lineup of Tesla Model Ys and Model 3s. This addition brings more diversity to Revel’s fleet, which is rapidly approaching 300 electric vehicles (EVs) in operation throughout New York City.
Revel’s primary goal is to promote electric mobility in the public sector by establishing the necessary infrastructure and accompanying services to facilitate a smoother transition. Since 2021, the company has operated a fleet of over 230 EVs, predominantly comprised of sky blue Tesla Model Y and Model 3 vehicles, which have been serving the New York City area.
One crucial aspect of Revel’s business strategy is its commitment to charging infrastructure. The company has been developing and deploying level 3 chargers across densely populated urban areas, beginning with its expansion in New York City. Revel’s plans include the establishment of a 60-stall Superhub in Queens. While these fast chargers primarily support Revel’s existing fleet, they are also accessible to all EV drivers.
Currently employing over 850 people as W2 drivers with hourly wages, health insurance, and paid time off, Revel is now aiming to create more employment opportunities for New Yorkers. Today, the company announced the incorporation of the Kia Niro EV into its fleet, not only to diversify its offerings but also to expand job prospects.
Revel specifically chose the 2023 Kia Niro EV because it aligns with the unique requirements of its rideshare service. The vehicle’s 64.8 kWh battery and impressive range of 253 miles ensure it can operate a full 8-hour shift on a single charge. In the event that a driver needs to recharge during a shift, the Kia Niro EV can rapidly recharge at a Revel hub with charging rates of up to 100 kW. Although the Niro EV has not yet received a rating from the NHTSA, its five-star ANCAP safety rating factored into Revel’s decision to include it in their fleet.
With the introduction of the Niro EVs, Revel aims to enhance the variety and availability of its services as it continues to expand within New York City and beyond. Keith Williams, Revel’s Vice President of Rideshare Operations, stated that while Teslas will remain the majority of their fleet, the addition of Kia’s Niro EV marks an exciting step toward diversifying their offerings as the electric vehicle market evolves. These new EVs will enable Revel to hire more New Yorkers as W2 employee drivers, provide zero-emission rides in every borough, scale their public fast charging infrastructure, and contribute to Mayor Adams’ goal of fully electrifying the rideshare industry by 2030.
Revel anticipates that New Yorkers will start seeing the Kia Niro EVs alongside the Tesla Model Ys and Model 3s by the end of June. Customers will be able to avail themselves of these vehicles for pick-ups and drop-offs in all five boroughs, select areas of northern New Jersey, and the three local airports.
