Kia Corp. has signed a sales agreement with Japan’s Sojitz Corp. to introduce its first purpose-built vehicle (PBV) model, the PV5, to the Japanese market starting in 2026. Sojitz, a diversified trading company involved in industries such as automobiles and energy, will collaborate with Kia to expand PBV sales, catering to Japan’s increasing demand for small- and medium-sized electric vans.
The move aligns with Japan’s goal of converting 30% of new car sales to electric vehicles by 2030. Kia’s PBVs are electric vehicles built on a customizable platform, offering solutions for various business and lifestyle needs. The PV5 will be equipped with CHAdeMO charging and V2X (vehicle-to-everything) technology, enhancing its appeal in the local market.
Kia plans to further grow its PBV ecosystem in Japan through local partnerships and may introduce additional models, such as the PV7, to meet diverse consumer demands.
