At CES 2024, Kia Corp. unveiled its ambitious Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) initiative, a radical reimagining of what cars can be. This project was announced as a dedicated business unit, separate from traditional car production, highlighting its transformative nature. Here’s a look at Kia’s Platform Beyond Vehicle initiative.

The Core of PBV

The core of PBV lies in modular electric vehicles (EVs) like the PV5, set for a global launch in 2025. These versatile platforms promise flexible loading and hauling capabilities, catering to both commercial and personal needs. Kia intends to deliver 15 such EVs globally by 2027.

Software Designed Vehicles

Beyond hardware, PBV emphasizes software integration. Kia plans to leverage parent company Hyundai Motor Group’s software-to-everything (SDx) strategy, envisioning a connected, software-defined transportation system. Dedicated software modules will power in-vehicle infotainment, fleet management, and charging, offering operators valuable insights into sales, inventory, delivery, temperature control, route planning, predictive maintenance, and even optimized charging schedules.

Kia has already established partnerships with South Korean and international companies like Coupang, Uber, and Dubai Taxi Corporation to develop its PBV business. The modular design is key. PBV models share a single chassis with interchangeable upper bodies, allowing easy field adaptations. A single PBV could seamlessly transform from a daytime taxi to a nighttime delivery van. A dedicated PBV factory in South Korea with a 150,000-vehicle annual capacity is slated to begin operations in 2025.

First Round, Three Offerings

The first PBV rollout phase focuses on three PV5 variants for ride-hailing, delivery, and other commercial applications. Additional versions like Basic, Van, High Roof, and Chassis Cab will follow. Design elements across these variations include large, pillarless entry doors and spacious interiors facilitated by the extended wheelbase and electric platform. This phase also introduces a data and feature-sharing ecosystem for software-defined fleets, enhancing operational efficiency and enabling access to external data like route or delivery information. A robotaxi model developed with Motional, a joint venture between Hyundai and Aptiv, is also part of this initial wave.

AI-Powered Platform

Phase two delves deeper into data integration, evolving PBVs into AI-powered platforms that learn from user behavior and keep vehicles updated. The largest model, the PV7, will offer ample space and driving range, while the compact PV1 caters to last-mile deliveries.

The Final Phase

The final phase envisions integrated rail and tile systems for enhanced interior and inter-vehicle movement. Rails will be positioned on the ceiling, floor, side panels, and even the exterior, while tiles will allow for flexible arrangement of functional accessories like speakers and shelves.

A Glimpse Into The Future

Kia’s Platform Beyond Vehicle marks a bold leap into the future of mobility. By prioritizing modularity, software integration, and user-centric design, Kia is laying the groundwork for a new era of adaptable, software-driven electric vehicles that cater to diverse needs and evolve alongside our changing world.

This is just a glimpse into the exciting possibilities of Kia’s PBV initiative. Stay tuned as Kia continues to push the boundaries of what vehicles can be, shaping the future of transportation one innovative module at a time.