(News Focus) Kia eyes bigger share of commercial vehicle market with PBVs

Seoul, South Korea, September 9 (Yonhap) -- Kia Corp. is aiming to expand its presence in the global commercial vehicle market by developing customizable electric vehicles at its AutoLand Hwaseong production hub. The hub, located about 60 kilometers southwest of the capital, integrates PBV production plants with a conversion center capable of tailoring electric base vehicles to specific customer needs.

Unlike traditional commercial vehicles that undergo modifications by external bodybuilders, Kia designs its Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) from the start with conversion in mind. This approach aims to reduce costs and production time while offering vehicles suited for various purposes, including logistics, passenger transport, camping, and more. The PBV concept is backed by Kia's investment in the AutoLand Hwaseong complex, which already produces popular models like the Sorento, Niro, and EV6.

In August 2025, Kia began mass production of the PV5 in its EVO Plant East, a 100,000-square-meter facility with an annual capacity of 100,000 vehicles. The plant can produce multiple PV5 variants, such as Passenger, Cargo, Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle, and Chassis Cab models. Upon completion of the EVO Plant West in June 2027, the combined annual production capacity of both EVO plants will reach 200,000 units.

Kia's strategy extends beyond vehicle sales to include customization, software, and comprehensive fleet services, providing customers with a holistic solution. Senior manager Lee Si-young stated that customers increasingly seek customized vehicles for last-mile delivery, passenger services, and specialized uses. The PV5, Kia's first dedicated PBV, has already gained industry recognition and sold over 40,000 units globally, surpassing its initial target of 54,000 units for 2026.

Kia aims to launch the larger PV7 at the IAA Transportation 2026 show in Germany and the PV9 by 2029. The company has set a target of selling 232,000 PBVs annually by 2030, with Europe and South Korea as key markets. Kia's CEO Investor Day highlighted the broader value of PBVs, emphasizing the importance of flexible production and conversion capabilities to meet diverse customer needs.