Kia partners with Sojitz to launch purpose-built vehicles in Japan in 2026

Kia Corp. said Tuesday it has partnered with Japanese general trading firm Sojitz Corp. to release its purpose-built vehicle (PBV) model in Japan. Under their sales agreement, the two companies plan to sell Kia's PV5 model in Japan starting in 2026. PBVs are next-generation electric vehicles built on dedicated platforms that can be customized to meet various user needs. Sojitz is a global trading company involved in sectors ranging from automobiles to energy, metals, chemicals and food. It also operates Kia's dealership business in Panama. Kia said the decision was made in response to the anticipated increase in demand for small and medium-sized electric vans, in line with the Japanese government's policy to transition 30 percent of new car sales to electric vehicles by 2030. The South Korean automaker said it also intends to collaborate with Japanese enterprises to establish a PBV ecosystem through strategic partnerships. Kia said it could introduce additional models, such as the PV7, to expand its PBV lineup in Japan after reviewing market response. Source: Yonhap News Agency