Kia outlined a comprehensive strategy for its future at this month’s Investor Day in Seoul, with a focus on its Platform Beyond Vehicles (PBV) vans. New models were confirmed, and ambitious sales targets of 250,000 units per year by 2030 were set.
The strategic move is all part of Kia’s plan and vision to transform itself into a 'Sustainable Mobility Solutions Provider' and place the brand at the forefront of the global electrification era.
Many of the upcoming commercial vehicles were announced earlier in the year, but Kia has confirmed two key PBV models: the PV5, which is expected to be released in 2025, and the PV7, due in 2027. Both models are expected to contribute to the brand's growth, with the PV5 — a rival to the Ford E-Transit Custom — and the larger E-Transit-sized PV7 having global sales targets of 150,000 and 100,000 units, respectively.
Set to be produced at the EVO Plant in Hwaseong, South Korea, Kia’s PBVs are created using a flexible production system that can efficiently adapt to market demands. Kia believes that this level of flexibility highlights its commitment to innovation and its ability to respond proactively to the evolving landscape of the mobility industry.
Kia aims to penetrate both the business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-customer (B2C) market segments with its PBVs, taking it beyond the traditionally seen consumer markets. According to Kia’s strategy, the versatility and innovative features of the PBV will allow the company to leverage new sales demands, predominantly in the B2B sector, where the requirement for vehicles tailored to customers' individual needs is greatest. It also aims to diversify its presence in the market by stimulating demand in the B2C segment.
Such ambitious goals will need significant investment to be successfully achieved, and Kia has pledged that too - an investment of KRW 38 trillion (£22.1 billion) has been committed by 2028, with a further KRW 15 trillion (£8.7 billion) allocated specifically for future business initiatives, including PBV development. Such substantial investment reflects the desire to cement the company's position as it looks to lead the way in the rapidly evolving industry, with electrification, sustainability and mobility solutions firmly in its sights.
The PBV model range is clearly a strategically important part of Kia’s ongoing business model. It allows it to adapt to constantly changing market dynamics and counter the rise of competitive brands from emerging manufacturers, most notably in China.
Enjoyed this? Read our latest news
- HMRC u-turns on controversial pick-up tax plan
- Leasing a pick-up as a personal vehicle - a guide
- Football's Jimmy Bullard talks vans, fans and fishing disasters!
- Ford unveils new Transit Connect with Plug-In Hybrid option
- Citroen announces new ‘Holidays’ camper van
Where To Next?
For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to our newsletter.
Looking for a great leasing deal? Check out our incredible range of special offers.
Read our latest reviews and find the right model for you.
Want to know more about leasing? Take a look at our comprehensive leasing guides.
Interested in everything motoring? Why not catch up on all the latest car leasing news.
