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Kia Middle East and Africa announces the launch of its ‘Platform Beyond Vehicle’ (PBV) initiative, set to transform the future of mobility in the region by 2026. This innovative business model integrates purpose-built electric vehicles (EVs) with cutting-edge software technology, transcending the conventional automotive landscape.
During a two-day event on February 20th and 21st at the Banyan Tree, Bluewaters Island, Dubai, Kia showcased its groundbreaking modular vehicles. The unveiling was attended by a diverse group of stakeholders, including media, government representatives, and business owners from across the Middle East and Africa, highlighting Kia’s commitment to pioneering sustainable mobility solutions.
The PBV model epitomizes Kia’s ambition to evolve into a Sustainable Mobility Solutions Provider, offering vehicles that blend flexibility with advanced technology. These vehicles are designed to cater to the varied needs of the MEA region’s fleet segment, promising to fill the gap in the market for adaptable and multifunctional transportation solutions.
SooHang Chang, President of Kia Middle East & Africa, emphasized the significance of the PBV initiative: “The introduction of Kia’s PBV to the Middle East and Africa signifies our commitment to pioneering future-forward mobility solutions for fleets across the region.” He stressed the focus on customer-centric, modular, and customizable vehicles that provide unparalleled freedom and flexibility.
Kia’s PBV strategy involves the use of ‘Easy Swap’ technology, allowing a single vehicle chassis to meet a wide range of mobility needs — from taxis to delivery vans — through interchangeable components. The approach includes a ‘Dynamic Hybrid’ body structure for easy customization according to the specific purpose of the vehicle.
The roadmap for Kia’s PBV rollout is divided into three phases: The initial phase introduces the Kia PV5, a versatile EV tailored for various services such as hailing, delivery, and utilities. The second phase expands the PBV lineup, transforming these vehicles into AI-driven mobility platforms. The final phase envisions a future where PBVs become highly customizable, integrating seamlessly into an automated mobility ecosystem.
This initiative not only marks a pivotal moment for Kia Middle East and Africa following its brand relaunch in 2021 but also reaffirms its leadership in sustainable mobility solutions in the region. Kia’s forward-looking strategy promises to redefine transportation, making mobility more adaptable, efficient, and suited to the evolving demands of businesses and consumers alike.
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