Kia Corporation has committed to improving mobility for disabled people with the PV5 WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle) model.
Kia showcased the PV5 WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle) model at the Financial Times’ Future of the Car Summit in London in collaboration with UK-based Motability Operations Limited.
As part of Kia’s ongoing commitment and contribution to enhancing mobility for people with disabilities, the exhibition underscores the company’s leadership as a Sustainable Mobility Solutions Provider.
Sangdae Kim, executive vice president and head of the PBV division at Kia, said that the PV5 WAV is more than just a vehicle; it’s a gateway to independence and freedom for those with mobility challenges.
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“By integrating cutting-edge Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) technology with thoughtful design, we are paving the way for a future where everyone can enjoy the benefits of sustainable mobility, and our partnership with Motability Operations is a testament to our commitment to making this vision a reality,” Kim said.
Kia has a long-standing history of efforts to enhance accessible mobility for all people. Since 2012, the brand has been dedicated to improving accessibility through various initiatives, such as the “Green Trip” project in South Korea, a project to enhance mobility rights and enable people with disabilities to travel freely.
In 2021, Kia expanded its efforts globally by conducting a universal mobility research and demonstration project in Los Angeles, U.S., to provide car-hailing services for people with specialised mobility needs.
Kia’s PV5 WAV is designed to provide freedom of movement not only for wheelchair users, but their families, caregivers and drivers as well.
The vehicle will enable users to enjoy more convenient, comfortable, and accessible travel while seamlessly transitioning to electric mobility.
The PV5 WAV features a side-entry system that allows wheelchair users to board safely from the sidewalk.
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It also includes a third-row tip-up seat, enabling caregivers to assist wheelchair passengers from the side.
The PV5 WAV side-entry variant will be manufactured entirely at Kia’s Hwaseong EVO Plant in Korea, using the company’s Made-In-Plant system.
The entire manufacturing process has been designed to be ecologically sustainable and further reduce entry barriers for those who need an accessible vehicle.
The model will provide easy curbside access to enhance safety and convenience. It will also feature a quick-use, 300 kg-rated wheelchair entry ramp and a specially developed wheelchair belt fastening system.
Beyond hardware innovations, the PV5 WAV will also integrate necessary applications for individuals with disabilities, based on the AAOS open software platform.
