KIA brings the most futuristic prototypes of its upcoming range of commercial vehicles to Europe

KIA has just taken a first step into the commercial vehicle market at the IAA Transportation fair taking place in Germany. And it has not only done so by presenting several prototypes close to the production versions, but also by showcasing new connected transport logistics solutions thanks to its partnership with the company Geotab.

The South Korean manufacturer had previously announced its intention to launch light electric commercial vehicles based on its modular PBV platform from 2025, but had not yet specified which models it planned to bring to this new market.

In Hannover, KIA has unveiled the PV5 and PV7 prototypes, with versions for both passenger transport and goods delivery, offering more space thanks to the use of higher roofs. These vehicles form the basis of KIA’s PBV strategy, which will culminate next summer in 2025 with the presentation of the first series production model.

The South Korean manufacturer wants to offer a complete solution to industry professionals

KIA has also taken advantage of its presence at this European fair to announce its alliance with Geotab, the company responsible for developing the multi-brand fleet management system for KIA’s PBVs. This system includes a white-label fleet management platform, applications for the fleet manager and the driver, and integration with the vehicle’s infotainment system.

It is important to clarify, however, that this collaboration covers not only fleet management but also extended functionalities such as automated recommendations for charging stops and a digital key -Digital Key 2.0-. In addition, KIA’s charging services will be integrated, allowing fleet administrators to manage all invoices separately according to the charging process.

KIA is developing a specific platform for its future light commercial vehicles, which can be adapted to vehicles with different wheelbases. The company plans to offer a seven-year or 150,000-kilometre warranty with the launch of these new commercial vehicles, in order to build trust among its potential customers.

A very serious commitment

Finally, with regard to production, KIA has begun construction of a specialised plant in its country of origin, which has led it to make an investment of more than three billion euros. This plant will have an initial production capacity of 150,000 units per year, with the intention of eventually increasing it to 300,000 units a year in order to meet the global demand for the vehicles produced there.