In a significant advancement for business-oriented electric vehicles, Kia Corporation has announced a strategic partnership with Samsung Electronics to integrate Samsung’s SmartThings Pro platform into Kia’s Purpose-Built Vehicles (PBVs). This collaboration aims to enhance operational efficiency for businesses by seamlessly connecting vehicles with various devices and services.
“By integrating SmartThings Pro into Kia PBVs, we plan to present an intelligent new way for businesses to connect to their customers,”
Chanwoo Park
The partnership was formalised during the recent Kia EV Day event in Tarragona, Spain, where executives from both companies outlined their vision for the future of connected business mobility. SmartThings Pro, Samsung’s enterprise-grade Internet of Things (IoT) platform, will enable Kia’s PBVs to interface directly with a range of business environments, from retail spaces to remote operations.
“By integrating SmartThings Pro into Kia PBVs, we plan to present an intelligent new way for businesses to connect to their customers,” stated Chanwoo Park, Executive Vice President of Samsung’s B2B Integrated Offering Centre.
This integration allows business owners to automate and control various aspects of their operations directly from their vehicles. For instance, a bakery owner can set the vehicle’s destination to a wholesale market, triggering an ‘Ingredient Purchase Mode’ that adjusts the vehicle’s internal refrigeration to keep ingredients fresh. Upon returning to the bakery, a ‘Commute Mode’ can activate, preparing the store by adjusting climate controls, signage, and equipment, ensuring the business is ready for operation upon arrival.
“Kia PBVs are designed to be more than just vehicles; they are intelligent business solutions that connect seamlessly with digital ecosystems,” remarked Sangdae Kim, Head of Kia’s PBV Division.
The SmartThings Pro platform also offers real-time monitoring and notifications, enabling business owners to manage multiple locations remotely. Features include alerts for unusual activities, maintenance requirements, and the ability to control check-ins and check-outs for hospitality venues, all accessible through the vehicle’s infotainment system or a connected device.
This collaboration signifies a pivotal shift towards integrating automotive technology with business operations, providing a cohesive solution that enhances both mobility and management capabilities. The rollout of SmartThings Pro in Kia’s PBVs is expected to commence by mid-2026, offering a new level of convenience and efficiency for business owners worldwide.