KATHMANDU: Canadian electric mobility company ENVO Drive Systems has introduced a modular electric vehicle platform that can be configured into up to 18 different vehicle types, allowing users to adapt a single platform for multiple applications instead of purchasing separate vehicles.
Called the Utility Personal Transporter (UPT), the platform has been designed for a wide range of light-duty uses, including cargo transport, industrial operations, farms, resorts, campuses and recreational activities.
Unlike conventional electric vehicles built for a single purpose, the UPT features a common chassis that can be transformed into various configurations, including a low-speed vehicle (LSV), golf cart, utility ATV, cargo carrier and industrial transport vehicle.
Customers can either choose from factory-built variants or configure their own vehicle using ENVO’s online 3D configurator. The system allows buyers to select different chassis layouts, drivetrains, battery packs, steering systems, wheel and tyre combinations, seating layouts, cargo beds, chargers and other accessories.
According to ENVO founder Ali Kazemkhani, the platform has been developed to offer long-term flexibility.
“Most manufacturers sell one vehicle for one job. With UPT, we build one platform that users can tailor into the perfect vehicle for what they need today and adapt for what they may need tomorrow,” he said.
The company said the project has been under development for four years. By mass-producing a single modular platform instead of multiple specialised vehicles, ENVO aims to reduce production costs while offering customers greater flexibility.
Depending on the chosen configuration, the UPT can be equipped with modular battery packs, optional four-wheel drive, individual wheel traction control, crawl mode, over-the-air software updates, smartphone connectivity, accessory power outlets, solar charging compatibility and IP67-rated water and dust protection. The platform has also been designed to support future autonomous or remote-operated functions.
ENVO expects the modular EV platform to serve commercial and industrial users, including warehouses, airports, municipal fleets, construction sites, delivery companies, security services and mobile businesses such as coffee carts.
The UPT is expected to be priced between US$8,000 and US$12,000, depending on configuration. Pre-orders are now open, while production is scheduled to begin later this year, with customer deliveries expected to start in early 2027.
