Kia is launching its first devoted electrical van subsequent yr to compete with Ford, Mercedes, and Stellantis. Nonetheless, Kia believes it has a bonus with its new devoted EV platform constructed from the bottom up. Forward of its official debut, Kia’s first EV van has already been noticed testing. Can Kia take the lead?
After introducing its new Platform Past Automobile (PBV) lineup in January, Kia gave us a glimpse into its multi-phase plan to steer the electrical van market.
Kia’s PBS are “whole mobility options” fusing fit-for-purpose EVs with superior software program. Kia says the brand new autos will “open the door to new companies and life.”
President and CEO Ho Sung Music stated Kia is “excited to point out that we’re totally ready to turn out to be the primary mover within the international PBV market.”
Based mostly on a versatile, devoted EV platform, Kia’s PBVs redefine the idea of house, enabling customized interiors. Kia plans to launch a vary of electrical vans, starting from small to massive, together with the PV1, PV5, and PV7.
The primary would be the PV5, anticipated to launch subsequent yr. Kia’s PV5 is a medium-sized EV van designed for supply, ride-sharing, or private use.
Kia needs to steer the shift to electrical vans
Forward of its official debut, we caught our first take a look at Kia’s new PV5 after it was noticed testing in public (you may watch the video right here). At first, the PV5 offers off a Volkswagen ID.Buzz-like really feel.
The PV5 is a sibling to Hyundai’s first electrical van, the ST1, revealed in March. Regardless of this, you may clearly see the Kia has a extra futuristic, trendy design.
All Kia electrical vans will likely be constructed on the devoted e-CCPM (Electrical Full Chassis Platform Module) from Hyundai Mobis. Kia’s European PBV director, Pierre-Martin Bos, believes this offers them a bonus over the present competitors.
“We go additional than current options as a result of we now have a devoted EV platform,” Bos advised Automotive Information in an interview.
Though Ford, Stellantis, Renault, and Mercedes lead the market, the fashions are electrical conversions primarily based on ICE platforms. Kia’s is constructed from the bottom up.
Mercedes and Renault each introduced plans to launch EV vans constructed on devoted platforms, however Kia might be the primary to market.
First mover benefit
Kia is anticipated to launch the PV5 subsequent yr, whereas Mercedes and Renault intention to start out manufacturing in 2026.
With a devoted EV platform, Kia can supply a decrease loading mattress, extra tech, connectivity, and different premium options. Kia believes it will assist it compete because the market shifts to electrical. The automaker already has some expertise launching PBVs.
Earlier than UK startup Arrival, which Kia (and Hyundai) invested in, declared chapter earlier this yr, it had developed a prototype.”Arrival helped us perceive what it means to launch PBV,” Bos stated.
Kia goals for round 249 miles (400 km) all-electric vary, which might high Ford’s E-Transit Customized (380 km).
Though Kia makes use of NMC batteries, it’s searching for LFP options. LFP batteries “will make it extra accessible to a wider viewers due to the pricing,” Bos defined. Kia has to disclose official costs.
Kia will construct PBVs at its devoted plant in Autoland Hwaseong, Korea. The manufacturing facility, anticipated to open subsequent yr, can have an annual capability of 150,000 items. By 2030, that quantity may double to round 300,000.
PV5 manufacturing is anticipated to start out in August 2025. The larger PV7 will launch round 2027. Campervan followers will likely be comfortable to listen to it’s massive sufficient for a conversion.
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