Kia’s electric van makes for the ultimate high-end people mover at luxury resorts

Kia wants your next vacation to be a little greener. The PV5, Kia’s electric van, is getting a new role as a high-end people mover at eco-friendly luxury resorts.

Kia launches PV5 pilot at Red Sea Global’s luxury resorts

You can use the PV5 as a daily driver, delivery van, or even to start a pop-up mobile shop, but now it has found a new use.

Kia launched a new demonstration project on September 29 with Red Sea Global (RSG), one of the developers behind Saudi Arabia’s new gigaprojects.

The project is “the first step toward smarter mobility” as Saudi Arabia aims to break away from its oil-centric economy.

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Kia will provide the PV5 Passenger model for the demo, but promises much more is on the way. The Korean automaker will also help train workers, teaching them about electric vehicles, new technology, and other clean energy solutions.

Kia’s electric vans will be used as customized people movers at RSG’s new resorts and wellness tourism complex in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Breaking free from oil opens up a new market

The site, located along the Red Sea, is one of five gigaprojects designed to help the oil-rich nation reduce its dependence on fossil fuels.

Saudi Arabia’s plans, part of its Vision 2030 strategy, include a futuristic new city in Neom, an entertainment complex in Qiddiya, a residential development in Roshn, and a heritage site in Diriyah.

Essentially, Saudi Arabia aims to transition from relying on oil revenue to power its economy to generating profits from tourism.

“Saudi Arabia is a very important market,” Jeong Ho-geun, Executive Vice President of Hyundai Motor Group’s Future Strategy Division, said, adding that the PV5 pilot is likely just the start.

A PV5 cargo designed for resort logistics and a custom PV5 conversion model could also be in the pipeline, the company said, which would be used at RSG’s high-end resorts. The larger PV7 electric van, set to launch in 2027, is “a possibility.”

With the PV5 arriving as a high-end shuttle in Saudi Arabia, will Kia launch it in other countries for use at resorts? It wouldn’t be a surprise.

Kia’s electric van is already rolling out in Europe, South Korea, and other global markets. The PV5 Passenger and Cargo, designed for personal and business use, are available in parts of Europe and South Korea.

During its PV5 Tech Day event over the summer, Kia revealed plans to launch seven new body types, including a “prime” luxury Passenger model, an open bed (similar to a pickup), and even a light camper version. What’s next?