Detroit-based startup Grounded has secured a $5 million seed round to expand its customizable van offerings. Initially focusing on electric vans like Ford’s E-Transit and General Motors’ BrightDrop, the company pivoted after both brands pulled back from EV production plans.

Grounded now aims to be vehicle-agnostic, offering modular designs for both electric and combustion engines. This shift allows them to cater to a broader range of commercial needs, including medical services, food delivery, and public safety. The startup has already secured clients such as Colgate and Wayne State University Medical.

Founder Sam Shapiro sees this expansion as crucial: 'With this new facility, we can finally build at the scale our fleet customers need.' Grounded plans to start production in their 50,000-square-foot Detroit plant and ramp up capacity next year. Their unique modular design approach ensures that vans can transform into everything from coffee shops to mobile healthcare units.

Shapiro's vision extends beyond just electric vehicles: 'We build the smart, high-tech, modular workspace or living space on top of the chassis.' By embracing both EV and gas-powered options, Grounded caters to a market that isn’t yet ready for full electrification but still needs modern, connected solutions.