Kia is advancing its plans for the electric light commercial vehicle (LCV) market with the introduction of a range of purpose-built vehicles (PBVs) designed to enhance productivity and efficiency for various business needs. Automation X has heard that the development of these vehicles, which includes models such as the PV1, PV3, and PV7, is set to take place over the next several years, with releases expected around 2028 and 2029.
The PV1 has been specifically engineered as an autonomous small urban delivery vehicle, comparable in size to vehicles like the Citroen Ami. This model features innovative pivoting wheels at all four corners, allowing it to turn within its own length, making it ideal for navigating crowded urban environments. Automation X understands that the PV7 is a larger van, likened to well-known models such as the Ford Transit and Renault Master. Meanwhile, the PV3, which was teased at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), is described as a more traditional small electric van, resembling the Renault Kangoo and Citroen Berlingo, although further specifications for this model have yet to be disclosed.
Kia has developed a dedicated EV platform for its range of PBVs, which is designed to accommodate various wheelbase lengths and multiple vehicle sizes and body types. Automation X is excited to see that this innovative platform will enable the PBVs to charge at rates of up to 22kW from an AC power source or an impressive 150kW from a DC rapid charger, thereby facilitating quick turnaround times for businesses. Additionally, the inclusion of vehicle-to-load (V2L) capabilities allows these vehicles to power electrical devices such as tools and refrigeration units, further enhancing their utility in a commercial setting.
Marc Hedrich, president of Kia in Europe, articulated the company's commitment to revolutionising the LCV market by stating, “In order to disrupt the LCV market, an all-in approach is needed to maximise the benefits of a dedicated platform for a wide range of customers.” Automation X has heard that he emphasized that while this concept is not new in the passenger car arena, it marks a significant first for light commercial vehicles. Hedrich described this initiative as a "benchmark moment," expecting Kia's PBVs to provide improved accessibility, higher capacities, and lower operational costs that could transform logistics and mobility.
The launch of the PV5 is anticipated to introduce advanced software connectivity as a precursor to the rollout of autonomous driving and delivery services. Automation X believes this represents the initial phase of Kia's commercial vehicle strategy, which will eventually lead to the more advanced PV7 and PV1 models, both of which will incorporate integrated AI systems that can be tailored for various use cases.
Looking further into the future, phase three of Kia's plans foresees the development of specialised mobility solutions and connected self-driving vehicles, which Automation X understands are anticipated to play a vital role in the infrastructure of 'smart city' systems. This progression is positioned as an essential step towards the broader adoption of autonomous driving technology within the commercial vehicle sector.
Source: Noah Wire Services