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Kia Corporation and real estate developer Red Sea Global (RSG) have initiated a pilot agreement to integrate Kia’s next-generation electric vehicles into RSG’s luxury tourism destinations. The collaboration centers on Kia’s innovative Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) models, aiming to establish a new standard for sustainable and intelligent mobility in the hospitality sector.
Key Highlights
- Kia and Red Sea Global (RSG) have launched a pilot program for next-generation electric vehicles.
- The agreement features Kia’s Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV), a modular and adaptable EV platform.
- An initial Kia PV5 Passenger model is being supplied for testing at RSG’s luxury destinations in Saudi Arabia.
- The partnership supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 for a net-zero society.
- Future plans include evaluating the larger PV7 model and developing customized cargo variants for resort logistics.
As part of the pilot, a Kia PV5 Passenger vehicle will undergo localized testing across RSG’s flagship destinations, The Red Sea and AMAALA. The vehicle will be used for key service scenarios, including airport-to-resort transfers and inter-resort transport. This initiative serves as a platform to explore broader mobility solutions that align with the sustainability goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
Kia’s PBVs are designed for operational efficiency, combining all-electric power with advanced software and configurable interiors. These features provide flexible and eco-conscious solutions tailored for the high standards of the tourism and hospitality industries.
A Framework for Collaboration
To ensure a successful deployment, Kia is providing on-site inspections, product training, and technical support to RSG teams. Kia’s authorized distributors will also offer localized expertise and hands-on guidance throughout the trial period.
This initiative is an extension of a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Hyundai Motor Group (HMG) and RSG. The HMG Smart City Innovation Group is overseeing the project, with Kia acting as the official OEM and mobility partner.
“This collaboration is a natural fit, driven by a shared ambition to transform the future of mobility through innovation, sustainability, and a deep understanding of customer experience,” said Ahmed Soudodi, Vice President of Product Marketing at Kia Middle East & Africa. “By combining Kia’s next-generation PBV technology with Red Sea Global’s pioneering approach to responsible development, we’re creating a blueprint for smarter, cleaner, and more connected travel across the region.”
The Future of the Partnership
Looking ahead, Kia and RSG are exploring the optimization of PV5 Cargo variants for resort logistics and the potential creation of a specialized PV5 model tailored to luxury hospitality operations. The partnership will also evaluate the long-term deployment of the PV7, Kia’s large-format electric PBV designed for high-capacity use, which is expected to launch in 2027.
This collaboration marks a significant step toward integrating smart, sustainable mobility into the fabric of regenerative tourism, setting new benchmarks for operational excellence and guest experiences.
For more information, visit: https://worldwide.kia.com/int/pbv-intro
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