Kia Concept PV5 showcases modular taxi and ridehail electric vehicle at CES 2024
At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024 in Las Vegas, Kia has taken a leap into the future of mobility by unveiling its Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) strategy. This approach, spearheaded by the introduction of the all-new modular vehicle, the Kia Concept PV5, marks Kia's commitment to revolutionising the mobility industry.
Kia's PBV strategy aligns with Hyundai Motor Group's broader goals in robotics, Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), and autonomous driving. These vehicles are not just electric; they are a convergence of advanced software solutions, embodying the Group’s 'software-to-everything' (SDx) strategy.
Phased Approach to Innovation: Kia's PBV roadmap consists of three phases. The first phase introduces the Kia PV5, an electric vehicle (EV) optimised for various domains like hailing, delivery, and utilities, with a focus on customisation and software-defined fleet management. The second phase involves expanding the PBV model line-up, transitioning to AI-based mobility platforms that interact with users and stay up-to-date through data. The third phase envisions highly customisable mobility solutions, integrating with future mobility ecosystems and contributing to the development of smart city infrastructures.
Design and Functionality: Kia's PBV design is focused on simplicity, functionality, and sustainability. Utilising 'Easy Swap' technology, a single vehicle chassis can serve multiple mobility needs. The design philosophy extends to the interior, where modular components can transform the vehicle for different uses. This design strategy incorporates sustainable materials, aiming to minimise environmental impact while offering aesthetic and tactile appeal.
Enhanced User Experience: The PBV models are designed for versatile user experiences, from transporting people and goods to addressing specific mobility challenges. The integration of In-Vehicle Infotainment (IVI), Fleet Management Systems (FMS), and optimised charging solutions, all powered by software and AI technologies, underscores Kia's commitment to user-centric solutions.
Global Partnerships and Future Technologies: Kia is reinforcing its PBV strategy through global partnerships and a focus on integrating robotics, AAM, and autonomous driving technologies. Collaborations with companies like Uber and Dubai Taxi Corporation, along with joint ventures like Motional, highlight Kia's ambition to be a leader in sustainable mobility solutions.
Sustainability and Beyond: Kia’s PBV strategy is an integral part of the brand's sustainability goals. The company's commitment to reducing environmental impact is evident in its vehicle designs and broader initiatives, such as leveraging hydrogen and electricity distribution to support sustainable city infrastructures.
Ho Sung Song, Kia President and CEO, said: “Kia’s PBV business represents our vision of going beyond the traditional concept of automobiles by fulfilling the unmet needs of diverse customers and communities through optimised vehicles and services catering to specific market and business circumstances.
“Kia PBVs will be an enabler of business innovation thanks to our customer-centric management system, EV mass production expertise, and the Hyundai Motor Group’s rapidly developing SDx strategy and related future businesses. We are excited to show that we are fully prepared to become the first mover in the global PBV market,” he added.
