Grounded, a Detroit-based startup, has secured $5 million in funding to customize electric and gas-powered vans for small businesses. The company pivoted from consumer van-life builds to focus on commercial vehicle outfitting.
Grounded's shift comes as the U.S. electric vehicle landscape has undergone significant changes. The startup now targets small business owners seeking customized commercial vans rather than individual van-life enthusiasts.
The company offers outfitting solutions for both EV and traditional gas-powered vehicles, positioning itself to serve businesses during the ongoing EV transition. This dual-fuel approach allows Grounded to capture market demand across different business segments and adoption timelines.
The $5 million funding round supports the company's expansion of customization services and production capacity. Grounded joins a growing segment of startups addressing the commercial vehicle modification market, which has gained traction as businesses electrify their fleets.
The company's pivot reflects broader market dynamics, where commercial and last-mile delivery sectors increasingly invest in vehicle electrification while maintaining reliance on traditional powertrains for specific applications.
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