Seoul: Kia Corp. announced on Monday that it has launched a pilot project in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with Red Sea Global (RSG), a key developer of the kingdom’s giga projects, to test its purpose-built PV5 vehicle, according to Pulse, the English service of Maeil Business Newspaper Korea.
The initiative follows a memorandum of understanding signed in March 2024 between Hyundai Motor Group and RSG to introduce eco-friendly mobility solutions.
Saudi Arabia unveiled its Vision 2030 strategy in 2016 to diversify its economy away from oil dependence and secure long-term growth.
“RSG, one of five giga projects officially announced under Vision 2030, is developing eco-friendly luxury resorts and wellness tourism complexes along the Red Sea and western coast. Other giga projects include Neom, a futuristic smart city; Qiddiya, an entertainment hub; Roshn, a housing development; and Diriyah, a heritage site project,” the report noted.
For the pilot, Kia will provide PV5 passenger models along with training support for vehicles and technologies, aiming to enhance sustainable mobility within RSG’s projects. The automaker seeks to deliver tailored solutions optimized for RSG’s tourism operations.
The trial will take place at The Red Sea, Saudi Arabia’s flagship tourism destination, and AMAALA, an eco-friendly wellness complex on the western coast. Testing will focus on transport services within resort areas and between the complexes and Red Sea International Airport.
“Based on the outcomes, Kia plans to explore PV5 cargo models for resort logistics and specialized conversion models for luxury resort operations. The company is also considering introducing the larger PV7, an electrified purpose-built vehicle scheduled for release in 2027,” the report added.
