Kia has big plans for Niro model

KIA's Niro Plus, its first ‘purpose-built vehicle’ (PBV), is designed to help people and businesses move beyond traditional automation and benefit future mobility.

The Niro Plus will be deployed as a general model and as zero-emission taxis, modifying the first-generation Niro EV to meet the demands of car-hailing services.

They aim to be a market leader by 2030, with PBVs of different shapes and sizes catering to customers’ evolving needs.

The first, for 2025, will be similar in size to a mid-sized vehicle but with 'scalability'.

Sangdae Kim, head of Kia eLCV business division, said, 'We’re transforming to focus on popularising electric vehicles and introducing mobility products tailored for users globally, to serve a market that holds great potential for development.'

Kia is also planning a 'general' Niro Plus for private buyers, which can be used for business and recreational purposes – including the aforementioned hailing services.

'For example, a scenario in which a small-business owner will use a Niro Plus for work during the week then make the most of its versatility for weekend leisure activities such as camping, hitting the beach, or heading for the mountains,' the South Korean car manufacturer's statement read.

According to Kia, larger PBVs would follow, perhaps even regular buses or mobile offices, and as plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and hybrid (HEV) electric vehicles according to countryspecific characteristics and needs.

The Niro Plus taxi model will be based on the first-generation Niro EV – Kia’s electric crossover launched in 2018.

Several enhancements have been made to the first-generation Niro to make the Plus ready to meet the robust demands of taxi operators.

Length and height have increased by 10mm and 80mm respectively.

Slimmed-down structures have also contributed to the greater cabin space: the Niro Plus taxi has thinner seats and door trim.

An ‘all-in-one’ display for the taxi version should improve convenience and safety for the driver.