K
ia Corporation has launched a pilot program with Saudi developer Red Sea Global (RSG) to test its next‑generation electric vehicles, starting with the Kia PV5. The partnership, part of Kia’s Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) strategy, aims to blend commercial utility with modular design, supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the Kingdom’s net‑zero goals.
The pilot supplies RSG with a PV5 Passenger for on‑site trials in key service scenarios—airport‑to‑resort transfers, inter‑resort transport, and broader fleet operations—at the Red Sea and AMAALA destinations. Kia has conducted on‑site inspections, delivered product training, and provided technical support to RSG teams, with authorized distributors offering ongoing guidance.
Hokeun Chung, Executive Vice President of Hyundai Motor Group (HMG), highlighted Saudi Arabia’s strategic importance and the potential for future collaboration on smart‑city technologies, including in‑vehicle solutions, data, and robotics. Hans Aksel Pedersen, Group Head of Operations at RSG, emphasized the company’s commitment to responsible development and the pilot’s role in testing eco‑conscious mobility. Ahmed Soudodi, Vice President of Product Marketing for Kia Middle East & Africa, noted the partnership’s alignment with shared ambitions for sustainable, customer‑centric mobility.
Looking ahead, Kia and RSG plan to refine PV5 Cargo variants for resort logistics and develop a custom PV5 model tailored to luxury hospitality needs, featuring multiple body configurations, conversion‑ready features, and full connectivity. The collaboration builds on a March 2024 Memorandum of Understanding between HMG and RSG, reflecting a shared vision to unlock sustainable tourism and innovative guest experiences through cutting‑edge mobility.
The initiative is overseen by the HMG Smart City Innovation Group, coordinating Saudi Smart City projects. Kia serves as the OEM and mobility partner, while RSG leads development and operation of destinations along the Saudi Red Sea coast.
Beyond the PV5, Kia and RSG will explore long‑term opportunities, including the potential deployment of the PV7—an upcoming large‑format electric PBV slated for 2027—and the PV9, expected in 2029. Kia targets sales of 250,000 PBVs globally by 2030, aiming to establish a scalable, software‑driven mobility ecosystem.
