Kia PBV concept lineup of 5 models unveiled for the first time “Completely different cars”

Kia introduced its futuristic PBV concept car at CES 2024 held in Las Vegas, USA.

Based on the message of ‘Mobility for everyone, presented by Kia that is ready’, Kia redefined the existing concept of PBV as ‘Purpose Bulit Vehicle’ as ‘Platform Beyond Vehicle’. The vision of ‘customer-centered total mobility solution’ was presented.

Kia has set up an exhibition hall measuring approximately 309 pyeong at the Las Vegas Convention Center and has organized four exhibition zones including Park, City, Home, and Factory under the theme of ‘Inspiring Space’ to present 5 types of PBV concept lineup and a PBV-only vehicle. Two innovative technologies were revealed.

# ‘PV5′, a versatile PBV tailored to fit the customer’s lifestyle

‘PV5′ is a mid-sized PBV concept model that forms the core of this Kia exhibition.

PV5 is designed so that one vehicle can be used for various purposes by applying modules that can be easily attached and detached. The biggest feature is that based on this versatility, it can be customized to suit the customer’s detailed lifestyle.

Kia exhibited three versions of PV5 at CES 2024, including ▲PV5 Basic ▲PV5 Delivery High Roof ▲PV5 Chassis Cab.

PV5 Basic is a model optimized for hailing services and is equipped with a system that can change the space to the most suitable space for the user by analyzing the data of the user who called the vehicle.

In particular, the PV5 Basic has a high overall height for maximized space, a sliding two-way flip seat with an innovative operating method that allows the seat to change direction freely without rotating the seat, and a lift for smooth entry and exit of wheelchairs, considering the convenience of the mobility impaired. Many designs and functions were applied.

The PV5 Delivery High Roof is a model optimized for logistics transportation and has greatly increased space usability by expanding headroom. In addition, it not only has ample interior height so you don’t have to bend over in the cargo space, but also has various storage concepts that allow you to conveniently sort delivery items.

The PV5 chassis cab emphasized the chassis-cab part so that you can intuitively understand the flexibility and versatility of the PV5. ‘Easy Swap’ technology, which replaces the rear variable parts (modules) excluding the driver’s seat, shows that one vehicle can function as an office, workroom, warehouse, etc. as needed.

PV5 is scheduled to be launched in 2025, and Kia plans to introduce a robotaxi model based on PV5 in addition to the versions unveiled through this CES.

#‘PV7′ and ‘PV1′ concepts… Optimization of logistics transportation through linkage between vehicles

In this exhibition, Kia displayed the actual ‘PV7′ and ‘PV1′ concepts in addition to the PV5 concept lineup.

PV7 is a large model that offers the widest space and longest driving range among the PBV concepts unveiled at this CES, making it suitable for long-distance logistics transportation.

PV1 is a compact model for short-distance logistics transportation and is equipped with a driving module that can minimize the turning radius. This allows free movement such as right-angle driving, diagonal driving, in-place rotation, and pivot turns, allowing fast movement even in narrow spaces where ordinary vehicles cannot operate.

Kia expects to be able to provide an optimal transportation solution encompassing everything from the beginning of logistics to last mile delivery through the linkage of PV7, which specializes in long-distance logistics, and PV1, which allows agile movement even in narrow spaces.

#Applying new concept items such as ‘rail & tile system’ and ‘cabinet/frame’ to the PBV concept

Kia applied and unveiled a variety of new concept items that can further increase the usability of PBV in the 5 types of PBV concept lineup unveiled this time.

First, they introduced the ‘Rail System’ and ‘Tile System’, accessory modules that allow you to create your own vehicle. Customers can build vehicle infrastructure optimized for specific purposes through ‘rails’ and ’tiles’ that can be installed on the vehicle’s ceiling, floor, and side panels as well as on the exterior of the vehicle body, or customize their own preferences by mounting various personal items on the vehicle. It is possible to create a vehicle environment that reflects this.

For example, the rails located on the sides and ceiling of the vehicle can be used to attach and detach accessories, and in the case of tiles, panels for various purposes such as storage can be attached to enable more efficient use of space.

‘Cabinet for Logistics’ and ‘Frame for Lifestyle’, which can contribute to the expansion and diversification of business models by increasing interconnectivity and compatibility between vehicles, were also unveiled.

‘Cabinet’ is a solution to assist logistics transportation. Products classified by size, type, delivery area, etc. can be loaded into a standardized storage cabinet (cabinet) and transported by PBV. The use of cabinets is expected to significantly shorten the time it takes to move items from vehicle to vehicle. In addition, if logistics automation based on vehicle management systems (FMS) is realized, innovative changes are expected to occur throughout the cargo transportation process.

‘Frame’ is a mobile service platform that can be mounted on a PBV. Users can select the frame they want among various types of frames that can be used for showrooms, bench tables, cooking utensils, stylers, entertainment features, etc., load it into the vehicle, and take it out upon arrival at the destination. Depending on how you use it, you can create an outdoor cafe or store.

In addition, the PBV concept lineup unveiled at this CES includes ▲front and rear interactive display panels that can deliver visual information to other vehicles and pedestrians ▲transparent film to enhance the sense of openness and enable charging through solar power The Panorama Solar roof, which made it possible, was applied and attracted the attention of visitors.

#Introducing two innovative technologies exclusively for PBV that can overcome the limitations of vehicle body space

Kia unveiled not only the actual PBV concept, but also two innovative technologies exclusively for PBV.

First, ‘Easy Swap’ is a technology for replacing module parts of a vehicle, and you can see how it actually works through the PV5 chassis cap 1/3 scale exhibit. Users can use one vehicle as an office, luxury limousine, camping car, etc. by removing the ‘business module’ from a fixed platform called ‘driver module’ using a lifting and lowering device and then combining it with other modules suitable for the purpose.

In particular, EasySwap technology uses a one-touch electric hybrid fastening method that uses both magnetic and mechanical force instead of the traditional bolt fastening method, enabling easy and quick replacement of modules as well as stable maintenance of the connection between the fixed platform and module.

When EasySwap technology is commercialized, ▲a service that provides hailing during the day and delivery at night ▲a service that uses vehicles for work during the week and camping on weekends ▲a service that provides an ‘EasySwap solution’ by purchasing exchange facilities and modules It is expected that various new business models, including services, will emerge.

‘Dynamic Hybrid’ is the world’s first innovative body structure technology developed by Kia for small-scale production of a wide variety of PBVs. Through simple assembly of lightweight standard members and lightweight standard joints, it is possible to manufacture a vehicle of the desired size without processes such as pressing, painting, or welding. For example, a furniture designer will be able to purchase a vehicle that is tailored to the length of the sofa he or she created.

Because this simple assembly method does not require large-scale production facilities, when dynamic hybrid technology is introduced in earnest, vehicle production through micro factories, or the method of individuals assembling the vehicle body by receiving a ‘kit’, will be common. It is expected to settle down.

The members and joints used in dynamic hybrids have a lightweight standard structure with high strength and high rigidity, and can be commonly applied to various car bodies. Vehicles made using this have a reduced number of parts required for production compared to general vehicles, while maintaining body rigidity. It can be greatly increased, so the possibilities for its use are likely to be endless.

#Kia prepares a separate exhibition space and provides ‘EV lifestyle experience’

Kia has set up a separate outdoor exhibition space of approximately 157 pyeong with the theme of ‘A Sensory EV Oasis’ at the Las Vegas Convention Center Central Plaza (LVCC Central Plaza), and is displaying two types of mass-produced vehicles (EV6, EV9) and Two types of concept cars (EV4, EV3) and ’10 Essential Sustainable Materials’, which express Kia’s commitment to sustainability, were exhibited.

The EV4 Concept is a model that breaks stereotypes about sedans under the theme of ‘Innovative attempts toward the future’ of Kia’s design philosophy, Offergit United, and shows the direction of the next-generation electric sedan pursued by Kia. The EV3 Concept has an exterior that well expresses a ‘pleasant experience for a reason,’ and is a model that provides optimal usability through an interior space that can be changed to suit the customer’s taste and lifestyle.

Reporter Cho Chang-hyeon