Oct. 17, 2025 | The week’s top stories and Kia’s Sangdae Kim on Kia’s new PV5
About this episode
Sangdae Kim, head of Kia's PBV business division, discusses the innovative PV5 midsize passenger van, emphasizing its role in Kia's electrification strategy and B2B focus. The conversation covers customer feedback in product development, unique use cases like wheelchair accessibility, and the vehicle's performance in cold climates. Kim highlights the competitive total cost of ownership for EVs compared to internal combustion engines and outlines Kia's ambitious goal of selling 250,000 PBVs globally by 2030. The episode also touches on significant Canadian automotive news, including Stellantis' plant changes and Lyft's expansion plans.
Stellantis changes Brampton plans; ZEV sales show life; Lyft expands. Plus, Head of the PBV Business Division at Kia Sangdae Kim talks about Kia’s new PV5 midsize passenger van, its Platform Beyond Vehicle concept, and the van's uses beyond just being a passenger vehicle.
Kia
"...head of the PDV business division at Kia, Sangde Kim. He recently spoke with Automotive News Canada publisher Tim Demopoulos..."
Kia is a car company from South Korea that makes different types of vehicles. They are known for being affordable and reliable.
Kia is a South Korean automotive manufacturer known for producing a range of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and electric vehicles. The company has gained popularity for its affordable pricing and extensive warranty programs.
Kia PV5
"...Kia's new PV5 midsize passenger van, its platform beyond vehicle concept, its uses beyond just being a passenger vehicle..."
The Kia PV5 is a new type of van that can carry passengers and is designed for comfort and convenience. It's part of Kia's effort to make more family-friendly vehicles.
The Kia PV5 is a midsize passenger van designed to offer versatility and comfort for families and groups. It represents Kia's commitment to expanding its lineup with practical vehicles that cater to various needs.
Jeep Compass
"...It will not build the next generation of the Jeep Compass. The automaker will move the plant output to a fa..."
The Jeep Compass is a smaller SUV that can handle rough roads and is good for everyday driving. It's popular because it offers a mix of space for passengers and cargo while still being easy to drive around town. The mention of its production suggests changes in how cars are being made and what people want to buy.
The Jeep Compass is a compact SUV that combines off-road capability with everyday practicality. It has been a significant model for Jeep, appealing to those who want a versatile vehicle for both urban and adventurous settings. The discussion around its production indicates shifts in the automotive industry and consumer preferences.
zero emission vehicle (ZEV)
"...despite a small spark in zero emission vehicle sales, when compared with a year ago, they remain depressed in August."
A zero emission vehicle is a type of car that doesn't produce any harmful gases while driving. This includes electric cars that run on batteries and cars that use hydrogen.
A zero emission vehicle (ZEV) is a vehicle that produces no tailpipe emissions, typically including battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. ZEVs are considered environmentally friendly as they help reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV)
"...August battery electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle sales totaled 14,657."
A plug-in hybrid vehicle is a car that can run on both electricity and gasoline. You can charge it by plugging it in, which helps save fuel and reduce pollution.
A plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) is a type of hybrid vehicle that can be recharged by plugging it into an external power source. PHEVs combine a conventional internal combustion engine with an electric motor, allowing for both electric-only driving and traditional gasoline operation.
battery electric vehicle (BEV)
"...August battery electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle sales totaled 14,657."
A battery electric vehicle is a car that runs only on electricity from batteries, not gasoline. They are better for the environment because they don't produce pollution while driving.
A battery electric vehicle (BEV) is a type of electric vehicle that is powered entirely by electricity stored in batteries. BEVs do not have an internal combustion engine and produce no tailpipe emissions, making them a clean alternative to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
Kia PB5
"...the PB5 is Kia's first dedicated platform beyond vehicle. How does this model support Kia's long-term PBV business strategy..."
The Kia PB5 is a new type of vehicle designed specifically for electric use. It shows Kia's plans to create more electric cars and enter new business areas.
The Kia PB5 is Kia's first dedicated platform for purpose-built vehicles (PBV), focusing on electric vehicle (EV) technology. This model represents Kia's strategy to expand into new markets and enhance their electrification efforts.
PBV (Purpose-Built Vehicle)
"...the PB5 is Kia's first dedicated platform beyond vehicle. How does this model support Kia's long-term PBV business strategy..."
PBV means Purpose-Built Vehicle, which are cars made for specific jobs instead of just regular driving. This is important for companies that want to create vehicles for businesses.
PBV stands for Purpose-Built Vehicle, which refers to vehicles designed for specific functions or uses rather than general consumer use. This concept is crucial for companies like Kia as they expand into commercial and specialized vehicle markets.
LCV (Light Commercial Vehicle)
"...we are entering new business area which is LCV business like commercial vehicle."
LCV means Light Commercial Vehicle, which are vehicles used mainly for business purposes, like delivering goods. Companies like Kia are focusing on this market.
LCV stands for Light Commercial Vehicle, which includes vehicles designed for transporting goods or passengers in a commercial context. This segment is significant for companies looking to diversify their offerings and cater to business needs.
EV (Electric Vehicle)
"...this is 100% dedicated to the EV model. The first model is the PB5 next to the PB7 and the PB9."
EV means Electric Vehicle, which is a car that runs on electricity instead of gasoline. These vehicles are becoming more popular as people look for cleaner options.
EV stands for Electric Vehicle, which refers to vehicles powered entirely or partially by electricity. This technology is central to the automotive industry's shift towards sustainable transportation.
wave market
"Let me give you some examples targeting wave market. Wave means wheelchair accessible vehicle. There are a lot of aging population in global market."
The wave market is about vehicles that are made for people who use wheelchairs. These vehicles have special features to help those who have trouble moving around.
The wave market refers to the market segment focused on wheelchair accessible vehicles. This includes vehicles designed to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges, such as the elderly or temporarily disabled.
side entry model
"So, we found some opportunity for Kia. So, we tried to develop a side entry model, like a normal getting and get out process."
A side entry model is a type of vehicle that lets people get in and out from the side instead of the back. This makes it easier for those who might have trouble moving around.
A side entry model refers to a vehicle designed with doors that allow passengers to enter and exit from the side, rather than the rear. This design is particularly beneficial for wheelchair accessibility and ease of access.
cold weather performance
"Kia. Your market here in Korea and other markets that you plan to deploy the PBV in are sometimes operate cold weather and cold temperatures."
Cold weather performance is about how well a car works when it's really cold outside. It's important for cars that are used in places with harsh winters.
Cold weather performance refers to how well a vehicle operates in low-temperature conditions. This includes aspects like battery efficiency, engine performance, and overall reliability in cold climates, which are crucial for fleet and commercial vehicles.
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