Kia introduced the PV5 WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle) at a domestic expo related to disabilities and is taking steps to enhance the domestic supply of electrified mobility for transportation-restricted individuals.
Kia announced that it will exhibit the PV5 WAV vehicle at the 20th Korea Assistive Technology Expo, held at the aT Center in Seocho-gu, Seoul, from the 10th for two days. This expo, hosted by the Korea Employment Agency for the Disabled, is an event to inform about the latest trends in assistive technology devices necessary for the professional lives of individuals with disabilities.
The PV5 WAV reflects Kia's commitment to providing better mobility freedom for transportation-restricted individuals, featuring optimal seating and living space as well as safety for wheelchair users.
It boasts characteristics such as being the first universal design in the country that allows both general passengers and wheelchair users to board, a low-floor design built on the EGMP.S dedicated platform, a side entry method considering the convenience of wheelchair users, and a structure where caregivers can accompany them in the third row.
The PV5 WAV is produced at the PBV dedicated factory 'Hwaseong EVO Plant.' There is no need for separate modifications by external companies, and vehicle maintenance can be easily received through the official Kia service network.
To reduce the inconveniences faced by transportation-restricted individuals when using general vehicles, various applications based on the AAOS (Android Automotive OS) open software platform are also being prepared. The PV5 WAV is expected to be first launched in Korea in the fourth quarter of this year.
Kia plans to promote the product to corporate taxi operators at the event and intends to listen to various opinions from representatives of disability organizations. Through this, it aims to enhance the domestic supply of the PV5 WAV-based taxis, which can accommodate both general passengers and wheelchair users, and promote the electrification transition of the mobility market for transportation-restricted individuals.
A Kia official stated, 'I am confident that the PV5 WAV will greatly contribute to improving the mobility rights and convenience of transportation-restricted individuals.'
Kia also revealed plans to collaborate with 'Motability,' a UK-based vehicle leasing company that operates the world's largest WAV fleet, to enhance the supply of mobility solutions for transportation-restricted individuals in the UK and Europe with the PV5 WAV.
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