Rivian Automotive in Irvine is spinning out a business that will develop small electric vehicles designed for short trips.

The new “micromobility” company, known as Also, is launching with $105 million in funding from Rivian and venture capital firm Eclipse. Rivian, which makes consumer EV trucks and SUVs, will have a minority stake in Also.

Chris Yu, a Rivian executive who will lead the new company as president, said in an interview that current options are limited for customers looking for plug-in vehicles smaller than a standard car. “There is a lack of personalized experience you get, like with a Rivian, for small EVs.”

The new business strives to make good on an internal project that Rivian has been pursuing for several years. Bloomberg reported in early 2023 that the automaker was developing an electric bike and had patents for bicycle components and designs. Rivian Chief Executive Officer RJ Scaringe will be on Also’s board.