Kia set to construct Korean plant for purpose built electric vehicles

Kia has announced its plans to construct a new plant for its upcoming range of electric Purpose Built Vehicles (PBVs).

Set to be based at Kia's existing site of Hwaseong, Korea, the factory will have an initial targeted capacity of 100,000 PBVs per year before annual production eventually grows to 150,000 units.

A significant part of Kia's Plan S electric vehicle strategy, the groundwork for the plant is to be laid down in 2023 before becoming fully-operational in 2025, by which time the manufacturer would have delivered most of its planned seven electric models before 2027.

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Kia says the PBV plant will incorporate autonomous operations, as well as technology, to reduce its carbon footprint, with clean painting and energy-saving facilities helping it to be as environmentally-friendly as possible.

“This dedicated PBV facility is one of the major pillars of our Plan S strategy as Kia seeks to claim the top position in the global PBV market,” said President and CEO of Kia Corporation, Ho Sung Song.

“We will initially explore new markets with derivative PBV models, then gradually expand our presence in global markets with dedicated PBV models featuring autonomous driving technologies.”

The Niro Plus has already been revealed as the marque's first PBV, with the enlongated Niro intended for use as a taxi and ride-share vehicle – although a passenger version will be available to the general public as either a traditional hybrid (HEV), a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) or a fully-electric vehicle (BEV).