Kia Corporation has linked with Samsung to introduce next-generation connectivity solutions for its Platform Beyond Vehicles (PBVs) electric van offerings.
The two firms have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for Samsung’s SmartThings Pro B2B IoT platform to be integrated into Kia PBVs for automated connectivity between vehicles and business spaces.
B2B customers will be able to use the technology for comprehensive management and monitoring of external business operations, including while on the road.
The South Korean automaker gave an example where small bakery owners set a nearby wholesale market as the destination and the pre-programmed business routine will activate an Ingredient Purchase Mode, whereby the vehicle’s internal refrigeration system will automatically adjust to ensure the ingredients remain fresh during the trip.
Once Commute Mode is activated, the owner can prepare the store before arriving by turning on the air-conditioning, signage and other equipment. They can also receive a task list intelligently, such as checking inventory and replacing filters, enabling them to prepare the store for operation without staff.
After business hours, they can activate a Closing Mode, which ensures that the store’s devices are powered off, energy-saving measures are applied and security management is taken care of automatically. They will also receive real-time notifications through the vehicle while driving if unusual activity is detected or if maintenance is required, such as in the case of device malfunctions.
SmartThings Pro will utilise AI-driven pattern recognition to recommend and refine automated business routines, while PBV owners will be able to monitor and control these features directly through the vehicle’s infotainment system, or through a tablet device.
Alongside SmartThings Pro integration, Kia and Samsung plan to develop specialised IoT solutions tailored to the unique needs of PBV business customers across various industries.
The two companies will first launch pilot services for small business owners and self-employed customers as part of this partnership. Moving forward, they will work on developing IoT product lines specifically for PBVs and bundled solutions tailored to the needs of B2B clients. They also aim to create new business models and extend their services to B2B customers globally.
This broader integration of technology, driven by the partnership between the two companies, will enable a seamless service that connects mobility, technology and business. The collaboration reaffirms Korea’s strong reputation for smart technology and Kia’s commitment to developing smarter, more efficient mobility solutions.
The agreement was signed during Kia’s 2025 EV Day in Spain, where the PV5 midsize van debuted as the first dedicated model in the PBV strategy.
Kia said the deal marks a significant step toward redefining both the ‘In-Vehicle’ and ‘Out-of-Vehicle’ experience and aligns with plans for its PBVs to go “beyond transportation into customised business solutions that can be integrated into broader digital ecosystems”.
“Kia PBVs are designed to be more than just vehicles, they are intelligent business solutions that connect seamlessly with digital ecosystems,” said Sangdae Kim, head of Kia’s PBV division. “We anticipate that our business collaboration with Samsung, leveraging its AI B2B solution SmartThings Pro, will extend the vehicle user experience for our business customers beyond PBVs into the broader IoT ecosystem. This partnership is expected to create new opportunities for discovering customer value.”
