Kia has revealed five new concept vehicles at the 2024 Consumer Electronic Show (CES) in Las Vegas that will constitute its global PBV business. Redefining the term PBV (purpose-built vehicle) as 'Platform Beyond Vehicle', Kia presented three PV5 derivatives, along with the Concept PV7 and the Concept PV1 as 'total mobility' solutions beyond traditional automobiles. The PBVs combine what the firm says fit-for-purpose EVs with advanced software solutions based on Hyundai Motor Group’s 'Software-defined Everything' (SDx) strategy. Through its SDx strategy, Hyundai intends to transform all moving devices, fleets, and ecosystems into valuable assets through advanced software and artificial intelligence (AI), meeting the needs of users anytime and anywhere.
Kia's new PBV platform is designed to spawn several future commercial vehicles, including the small PV1, the midsize PV5, and the large PV7 van. Of these, the Kia PV5 will go into production first, in 2025.
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All PBVs will have a swappable body composed of tubular steel, engineered polymers, and recycled materials. With 'Easy Swap' technology, a single chassis can be used for a variety of mobility needs. There will be a fixed driver's cockpit, while the rest of the chassis will enable the vehicle to swap from a cab to a delivery van and to even more. These swappable bodies or 'life modules' can be connected to the base vehicle (or chassis) through a hybrid electromagnetic and mechanical coupling technology.
Kia PV5: What We Know
The Kia PV5 will be the first model to roll out from a new plant designed specifically for PBVs. Measuring 4,700mm in length, the midsize van will sit on the E-GMP platform that underpins the Kia EV6 and new Kia EV9. While the battery size and range have yet to be revealed, we know that the PV5 will feature a 400V electrical architecture. Two versions of the PV5 will be on offer at launch – a seven-seater People Mover and a High Roof panel van.
With this PV5, Kia aims to target small and medium businesses. Speaking of which, the South Korean manufacturer signed an MoU with Uber at CES 2024 to help the ride-hailing leader enhance its electric vehicle offerings by delivering a combination of "industry-leading technology" and "advanced software and services".
Kia's PBV roadmap
The brand's PBV roadmap is divided into three distinct phases. The launch of the PV5 will form part of phase one. Based on a versatile platform, the PV5 will be used for hailing, delivery, and utilities with conversion capability for diverse customer needs.
Phase two of a three-phase PBV roadmap will include the completion of the dedicated PBV model line-up. Measuring 5,000-5,700mm in length, the PV7 is the largest product in the line-up. It is said to offer more interior space, greater driving range, and enhanced functionalities. It will be offered in front-wheel and four-wheel drive configurations. The PV1, on the other hand, is the smallest product in the line-up, and is capable of agile and short-distance logistics transportation. While the PV1 isn't yet planned for production, the PV7 will enter production in 2027.
Finally, phase three will see the evolution of PBVs into bespoke mobility solutions. Kia says this is the phase where its PBVs will ultimately become life platforms that turn inspiration into reality.
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Kia's first PBV factory will become operational in the second half of 2025 when the first concept will go into development. The plant will have an annual production capacity of 1.50 lakh units.
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