At this year’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Kia took a practical approach by unveiling a flexible new vehicle concept aimed at businesses and commercial applications rather than flash and spectacle.

The new Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) uses a modular chassis that can be configured into at least nine different electric minivan variants customized for different commercial uses. The basic PBV design resembles a box on wheels, with a flat front, boxy shape, minimal overhangs, and flexible short or long wheelbases.

The real innovation lies in the PBV’s interior, which features removable seats and attachment points to customize cargo and passenger configurations based on specific needs. For passenger transport, different seating layouts can be selected. For cargo, the seats can be fully removed to maximize hauling capability.

Unlike some flashy concepts, Kia’s PBVs may hit the road thanks to an extensive new business strategy with three phases:

Phase 1 involves the PV5, an electric “hailing and delivery” van with removable seats and cargo space. The PV5 operates through a central software hub for fleet coordination.

Phase 2 builds out the full PBV lineup into customizable “AI-based mobility platforms” that evolve.

Phase 3 sees the PBVs integrate into a broader smart mobility ecosystem with more customization.

Sound familiar? Parent company Hyundai showed a similar Purpose Built Vehicle (PBV) at CES 2020 designed to pair with aerial taxis. However, Kia’s vision focuses more on customizable last-mile transportation for people and goods.

While specs are still vague, the PBV features a weldless body-on-frame design for easy shipping and assembly. Different “life modules” or attachments can adapt the vans for different duties by day or night. It’s designed to be durable enough for tough commercial use despite its transformable nature.

Kia plans to open a dedicated PBV factory in Korea by 2025, with a capacity for 150,000 vehicles annually. If realized, the Platform Beyond Vehicle could provide cost-effective electric solutions for commercial fleets looking to electrify in the coming decade.