ENVO UPT: modular electric car-constructor «18 in 1» for $8000

Canadian startup ENVO Drive Systems has unveiled its innovative Utility Personal Transporter (UPT) platform, offering a new perspective on the use of electric vehicles. Instead of purchasing highly specialized equipment, the company offers users a single “electric vehicle-designer” that can be adapted to a variety of business tasks and personal needs.

What is the ENVO UPT platform

ENVO UPT is a modular frame that can be used to assemble up to 18 different vehicle configurations. The system allows the owner to independently choose specifications for their purposes: from creating a maneuverable golf cart or electric cargo transport to building a specialized industrial all-terrain vehicle or a utility assistant. According to company founder Ali Kazemkhani, the ENVO concept echoes the approach of IKEA or LEGO, where the base remains the same, and the possibilities of use are expanded at the request of the owner.

Technical characteristics and customization options

The platform was created over four years. The main idea of the project is the democratization of specialized transport through mass production of a single modular base. Through a special online configurator with 3D visualization the buyer can configure such elements as:

• Chassis design and drive type;
• Battery assemblies and steering system;
• Seating arrangement and cargo platforms;
• Additional accessories (bumpers, charging systems, wheels).

Depending on the configuration, the user can receive transport with the following capabilities:

• Optional all-wheel drive and traction control for each wheel;
• Crawl Mode for slow movement through difficult terrain;
• Supports charging from solar panels;
• Casing protection according to IP67 standard;
• Over-the-air software updates and integration with a smartphone;
• Connectors for additional attachments.

Price and launch timing

The cost of the platform varies from 8,000 to 12,000 dollars depending on the equipment and the selected configuration. Currently, the company is already accepting pre-orders for the platform.

Start of production and prospects

Serial production will start in late autumn 2026. The first deliveries to customers are planned for early 2027. The platform is aimed at use in the agricultural sector, warehouses, construction sites, hotel complexes, airports, and even in the mobile small business segment (for example, for mobile coffee shops).