Kia is using the CES 2024 show to showcase a fleet of concept EVs targeted at business customers based on a single flexible chassis their calling Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV).
Kia will show five concepts: Concept PV1, three different versions of Concept PV5, and Concept PV7. Images shared show sleek yet utilitarian vehicles, with the Concept PV1 being the smallest, the Concept PV5 derivatives being the most mass-market in size, in line with most common delivery vehicles, and the Concept PV7 fittingly being the largest of the bunch.
The Platform Beyond Vehicle chassis can be adapted to suit the needs of numerous industries, focusing on function over form. Kia says their mission with the PBV platform is to make them as simple and easy to operate as possible, meaning aesthetics will take a bit of a backseat to purpose. The PBV platform will feature a fixed cab, or “driver zone,” behind which different interchangeable upper body modules can be connected to the vehicle’s base via a hybrid electromagnetic and mechanical coupling technology. This system will allow PBV vehicles to be transformed for different uses quickly and efficiently, saving the customer from needing to purchase multiple vehicles to suit their needs.
Kai’s roadmap for the PBV platform is divided into three different phases.
The first phase will see Kia introduce the Kia PV5, a van-like vehicle with different versions targeting delivery, utility, and ride-sharing customers. These vehicles will feature deeply integrated data connectivity solutions intended to make their operation as connected and seamless as possible.
Phase two will continue the completion of the PBV line-up using AI-based mobility platforms that “use data to interact with users and help keep vehicles updated.”
The third and final phase will see Kia PBVs “evolve into highly customizable, bespoke mobility solutions by integrating with the future mobility ecosystem.”
Kia plans to produce this new line of vehicles at a dedicated factory in Hwaseong, South Korea, which is expected to come online sometime in 2025.
