The
standard vehicles will be equipped with a range of the latest commercial
technologies, including high-torque 7.0-litre diesel engines and automatic
transmission systems, ABS and Anti-Spin Regulator (ASR), Rear Parking Assist,
Around View Monitor, satellite navigation and hot wire seats.
Kia’s
modular approach to developing new vehicles on the platform will enable the
development of other derivatives in future, such as vehicles equipped with a
range of weapons systems, and those designed with more specialized
specifications and technologies.
The
company has developed a conceptual brief for its new military all-terrain
vehicles (ATV) and plans to introduce a prototype early next year. The
developed ATV will not only be deployed for military purposes, but will also be
used in various fields, such as industrial and leisure sectors, drawing on bare
chassis from the robust Kia Mohave SUV. Kia will continue to grow its
reputation as an SUV brand by applying technology and know-how from military
vehicle development to improve the durability of its road-going SUVs.
To
contribute to the development of the military's future combat systems, Kia is
also actively carrying out advanced R&D, combining the latest automotive
technology with military vehicles. The company is developing autonomous driving
technology for military vehicles which could assist with delivering supplies.
Furthermore,
Kia is exploring the potential for hydrogen fuel cell technology across diverse
military applications, including fuel cell vehicles and emergency power
generators. Fuel cell technology is considered suitable for future military
vehicles as it can supply large amounts of electricity in combat environments.
Kia
Motors has produced a range of vehicles for the Korean and overseas military,
including 0.25-, 1.25-, 2.5- and 5-ton vehicles. To-date, Kia has supplied nine
model types and 100 derivatives, and produced a total of 140,000 military
vehicles.
The
company produced the BV206 all-terrain tracked carrier. And in 2001, it
developed a 15-ton rescue vehicle and heavy equipment transport tractor,
establishing a full line-up production system for military vehicles ranging
from small to large segments.
Kia
also created Korea's first multipurpose tactical vehicle, a light tactical
vehicle replacing existing 0.25-ton and 1.25-ton vehicles. The vehicle was
equipped with the robust engine, automatic transmission and brake system from
the Kia Mohave, and also adopted the latest commercial technologies and
military special specifications, including an electronic four-wheel drive
system.
Kia’s
strengths stem from its experience of developing vehicles across multiple
segments, and its future is founded on a number of business pillars, including
the development of logistics and leisure-based Purpose-Built Vehicles (PBVs).
At
the start of 2020 Kia announced its ‘Plan S’ mid- to long-term strategy,
encompassing a range of diversified business activities, including the
development of PBVs. Kia's plans for PBV development are based on small-volume
production of specialist vehicles with excellent body durability, similar to
the way in which military vehicles are developed. Kia Motors’ expertise in
producing military vehicles to serve specific roles also provides a competitive
edge in the PBV business.
Source: Kia Motors