Last December, Kia announced the launch of its line called PVB for “platform beyond the vehicle”. This range includes several models, ranging from a van (PV7) to a small vehicle (PV1), including a minivan type (PV5).
The flagship model of this line is the PV5, which is the basis for the entire series. This minivan can be transformed into a pickup, among other things, thanks to interchangeable modules. The steering wheel of the PV5 can turn to transform into a lamp, turning the cockpit into a mobile office, ideal for working on the go.
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The interaction between the different models in the PVB line is also an interesting feature. The vehicles are designed to facilitate the transfer of cargo between the van and the PV1, offering a fairly suitable solution for activities such as last mile delivery.
Pierre-Martin Bos, vice president of Kia’s PBV division and formerly of Stellantis, announced that a plant dedicated to the production of these vehicles is currently under construction in South Korea. Kia’s goal is to manufacture 150,000 PVB vehicles by 2025gradually increasing to 300,000 units per year by 2030.
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PV5 should also be available as a stand-alone version, specifically for integration into fleets of robot taxis. Kia has already signed preliminary agreements with such well-known companies as Coupang (e-commerce) and Kakao Mobility (ridesharing) in South Korea, Dubai Taxi Company and the American company CJ Logistics.
According to Pierre-Martin Boss, an announcement of a global cooperation with the booking platform Uber is also expected this week.
We don’t yet know all the technical details of this range, including the battery capacity or even the claimed autonomy. They will undoubtedly be presented at the same time as the production version of these concepts.
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Source: Auto Plus
Robert is an experienced journalist who has been covering the automobile industry for over a decade. He has a deep understanding of the latest technologies and trends in the industry and is known for his thorough and in-depth reporting.