Dallas-based premium rideshare company Alto is introducing a major fleet upgrade with the rollout of the all-electric Kia EV9, aiming to offer riders a quieter, more spacious, and comfortable city travel experience.
Founded in 2019, Alto has expanded its operations to Houston and maintains partnerships with Uber in Los Angeles and Miami. Unlike traditional rideshare platforms, which rely on gig drivers using their own vehicles, Alto owns its fleet and employs drivers as W-2 staff. The company says this model enables a more controlled and curated experience for passengers.
“With the EV9, we’re able to deliver an even better ride for our guests,” said Alto Co-Founder and CEO Will Coleman. “It’s quiet, incredibly spacious, and designed with comfort in mind.”
The Kia EV9 is a three-row electric SUV equipped with captain’s chairs, modern interiors, and a smooth, quiet ride. Alto describes the cabin as a “calm space” with extra room to stretch out, providing a premium feel for everyday transportation. The new vehicles also contribute a fresh visual presence to city streets, reflecting the brand’s signature style while introducing one of the latest electric SUVs to the market.
Alto’s distinctive approach extends beyond vehicles to driver training and service standards. By operating its own fleet, the company oversees all aspects of the ride experience—from vehicle charging, cleaning, and maintenance at company depots to staging the cars for service throughout the day.
“Because we operate the fleet ourselves, we can control the entire experience,” Coleman said. “From the vehicles we choose to how they’re maintained and presented to guests, everything is designed to make the ride feel effortless.”
