Kia Unveils First PBV 'Niro Plus'

1st Generation Niro EV-Based Derived PBV
Models Introduced for Corporate, Local Government, and Individual Customers

[Asia Economy Reporter Yoo Hyun-seok] Kia is launching the 'Niro Plus,' a derivative Purpose-Built Vehicle (PBV) based on the 1st generation Niro EV, to actively target the market. It aims to promptly respond to the demand for eco-friendly mobility that can be used for daily life and leisure by domestic taxi service workers, as well as corporate, local government, and individual customers. At the same time, Kia plans to develop models for car-hailing, corporate, and individual customers in global regions.

On the 27th, Kia unveiled the design and key features of its brand's first PBV, the Niro Plus. The Niro Plus is a derivative PBV model developed based on the 1st generation Niro EV to meet the diverse needs of customers. The 1st generation Niro is Kia's first dedicated eco-friendly model. Since the launch of the electric vehicle model in 2018, it has sold over approximately 145,000 units globally as of March this year, earning recognition for its excellent product quality from customers.

Kia secured differentiated spaciousness through optimal design by increasing the overall height and length of the Niro Plus while slimming down the interior. Customized specifications reflecting the voices of taxi, individual, and corporate customers were applied to maximize convenience according to the vehicle's intended use.

The Niro Plus features an 'All-in-One Display.' It is composed of two versions: a taxi-dedicated model supporting various functions and a personal/corporate model that can be used for work and leisure. The exterior is characterized by a newly applied high roof and rear glass, creating an expanded sense of space. The overall height and length have increased by 80mm (based on the 1st generation Niro without roof rack) and 10mm respectively compared to the existing 1st generation Niro, allowing passengers to get in and out of the vehicle comfortably.

Kia actively responds to the demand for corporate and local government official vehicles for work and protocol purposes following the implementation of the eco-friendly vehicle purchase target system. Additionally, the Niro Plus personal/corporate model is prepared for customers who want a versatile electric vehicle with excellent spaciousness.

The 'Camping Package,' exclusive to the personal/corporate model specialized for camping, will be unveiled at the time of the Niro Plus pre-order next month. A Kia official said, "The Niro Plus, which allows versatile use of interior space, is expected to be a good choice not only for taxis but also for customers who use it for daily life and work on weekdays and enjoy leisure activities such as camping and picnics on holidays."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.