Kia is building electric vans with Korea’s largest utility company

Kia sees an opportunity with its first electric PBV van launching next year. Although they are not even out yet, Kia is already finding new uses for the upcoming fit-for-purpose EV vans.

We got our first look at the upcoming electric vans after Kia revealed its Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) business at the 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January.

Kia showcased three PBV concepts (PV1, PV5, and PB7), ranging from mid-to-large in size. The company claimed at the event that the platform “offers a blank canvas to redefine how space and mobility can adapt.”

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.

Kia will build electric vans for Korea’s largest utility firm

A Kia official said the new partnership will “help expand customized mobility services and accelerate the growth of the electric vehicle ecosystem.”

The companies also plan to develop a “Fleet Management System (FMS)” to improve work efficiency.

Kia plans to lead the Korean market and wants to secure global leadership. It’s partnering with Uber to offer ride-hailing on its extensive platform.

Last month, the fit-for-purpose EVs made their European debut at IAA Hanover. Kia also signed a deal with Sojit to sell its PBS in Japan starting in 2026.

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.