The PBVs are designed as “total mobility solutions”, combining Hyundai’s advanced software with fit-for-purpose EVs. The PV5, a mid-size electric van, will be the first to launch next year.
Ahead of its official debut, Kia is already finding new uses for the platform. Kia is partnering with Korea’s largest utility company, Korea Electric Power Corp (KEPC), to build optimized electric vans for its fleet.
After the PV5 launches next year, Kia will introduce a lineup of software-defined electric vans in sizes from mid-size to large. Ahead of its official debut, Kia’s PV5 electric van has been spotted testing several times. From the first look, it could challenge Volkswagen’s ID.Buzz.
Kia will build PBV models at a new dedicated facility in Autoland Hwaseong, Korea. The plant is expected to open next year and have a capacity of up to 150,000 annual units.
By 2030, output could double to 300,000. The new PBVs will rival electric vans from Volkswagen, Ford, GM, Rivian, and others as Kia seeks to become a leading provider of sustainable mobility solutions.
