Kia Corporation has announced a major step in its global expansion strategy by entering the Japanese market with its Platform Beyond Vehicles (PBVs) in early 2026. This move marks a significant milestone for the South Korean automaker as it continues to redefine the mobility landscape with its innovative, customer-centric electric vehicle (EV) solutions.
A Global Strategy, Now in Japan
The decision to bring PBVs to Japan aligns with Kia’s broader global PBV strategy, which has already seen the company showcase its PBV models and business ecosystem at major international events, including CES 2024 in Las Vegas, the Busan Mobility Show in Korea, and the IAA in Europe. By entering Japan, Kia is expanding its reach in a market that values advanced technology, efficient mobility solutions, and tailored customer experiences.
What Are PBVs?
PBVs, or Platform Beyond Vehicles, are Kia’s solution to the evolving demands of various industries for customisable, multi-purpose vehicles. Unlike traditional vehicles, PBVs can be tailored to specific business needs. They combine purpose-built EV platforms with advanced software solutions, allowing companies to customise aspects like seating arrangements, luggage compartments, door configurations, and battery capacities.
This high degree of customisation positions PBVs as a cost-effective, flexible solution for industries ranging from logistics and transportation to hospitality and healthcare. As part of Hyundai Motor Group’s “software-defined everything” (SDx) strategy, Kia’s PBVs offer more than just transportation—they provide an entire mobility ecosystem designed to enhance both business efficiency and customer experience.
First Up: PV5 and PV7
Kia’s first PBV model to enter the Japanese market will be the PV5, a mid-size electric vehicle that debuted as a concept at CES 2024. Designed specifically for the scalability of business operations in Japan, the PV5 will cater to various industries by offering tailored interior and exterior options. Following the PV5, the PV7 will also launch, continuing Kia's plan to roll out a full range of PBV models in the Japanese market.
Tailored Solutions for Japan
Kia is tailoring its PBVs to meet the unique needs of Japanese customers, recognising the distinct requirements of local businesses. As part of this, Kia has partnered with Sojitz Corporation, a Japanese trading company with expertise in transportation and infrastructure. Sojitz will serve as the official distributor of Kia’s PBVs, ensuring that Kia’s advanced mobility solutions reach the right market segments across Japan.
Creating a PBV Ecosystem
Beyond just launching vehicles, Kia is focused on developing a broader PBV ecosystem in Japan. This includes forming partnerships with local companies to co-develop services and solutions that are specifically optimised for the Japanese market. Sangdae Kim, Senior Vice President and Head of Kia’s PBV Business Division emphasised the importance of local partnerships in delivering value to Japanese customers.
Kia’s PBV ecosystem is designed to enhance cost-competitiveness and create new business opportunities. By redefining the concept of space and mobility, Kia’s PBVs allow companies to maximise the potential of their fleets, while also offering new businesses the chance to operate more flexibly and efficiently.
A Glimpse of the Future: The EVO Plant
To meet the growing global demand for PBVs, Kia is building a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility known as the "EVO Plant." Located in Hwaseong, Korea, this plant is dedicated exclusively to producing PBV electric vehicles, reflecting Kia’s commitment to leading the charge in the future of mobility.
Shaping the Future of Mobility in Japan
As Kia prepares to launch its PBVs in Japan, it is clear that the automaker is not just selling vehicles but delivering a complete mobility solution tailored to meet the demands of modern businesses. With customisable electric platforms, advanced software solutions, and a strategic partnership with Sojitz Corporation, Kia is set to make a significant impact on the Japanese market.
With the first PV5 model slated for 2026 and more models like the PV7 to follow, Kia is well-positioned to lead the charge in Japan’s evolving mobility landscape. As the world moves towards a future defined by electric vehicles and adaptable mobility solutions, Kia’s PBV ecosystem promises to be a game-changer for businesses across Japan.
