Kia to Unveil 5 PBV Concepts at CES 2024

Kia will make its way back to the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas after an absence of five years. This time, the manufacturer will show an array of PBV-based concepts that will provide a preview of its future electric cars. In addition, Kia will highlight its objectives for global partnership integration, along with other technologies like Easy Swap and digital solutions created by Hyundai. The EV3 and EV4 concept cars, as well as the new EV9 and EV6 GT, will also be on display at the event. To offer experience-based values that illustrate new business and lifestyle models, Kia has decided to rename its Purpose-Built Vehicle, or PBV, the company's comprehensive mobility solution, to Platform Beyond Vehicle. While this highly regarded technology show still has time, let's look at what Kia has in store for its global clientele in terms of technologies and concepts.

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Kia PBV Concepts: What's New?

Kia will display five PBV-based concepts at CES 2024. These uniquely designed models are going to be the centerpiece of the firm's future business strategy, enabling it to venture into emerging sectors that include e-commerce, logistics, robot delivery, and shuttle services. Given the stricter environmental regulations being imposed in markets worldwide, the company intends to offer more ecologically responsible mobility solutions. The first concept, which will employ PBV technology, is scheduled to go into mass production in 2025. 

The first PBV factory of Kia is currently under construction and is located in South Korea. The factory's major manufacturing project is planned to begin in the second half of 2025 when the first concept will go into development. The company previously claimed that it plans to construct 150,000 units in the first year and will thereafter expand based on market conditions. 

What is PBV?

A purpose-built vehicle, or PBV, is a vehicle with a flexible base and many state-of-the-art service options that are best suited to satisfy the needs of the users. Unlike the current notion of a vehicle that is built for the driver, this one has a straightforward design that is focused on the application.

Regarding its new PBV platform, the automaker commented ''Kia PBV is a total mobility solution combining fit-for-purpose EVs with advanced software solutions that will open the door to new businesses and lifestyles.''

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Kia EV6: The First EV of Brand in India

Priced between Rs 60.95 lakh and Rs 65.95 lakh (ex-showroom), the Kia EV6 is the Korean automaker's first all-electric vehicle in India. It is powered by a 77.4kWh battery that produces 226bhp and 350Nm with a single rear-wheel drive, and 320bhp and 605Nm with two motors. Regarding features, the five-seater e-SUV is equipped with a touchscreen infotainment system, a 14-speaker Meridian sound system, wireless phone charging, dual-zone climate control, a single-pane sunroof, and powered and ventilated front seats.