Kia Corporation has entered a strategic partnership with Samsung Electronics to introduce advanced Internet of Things (IoT) solutions for its Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) lineup. The collaboration, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding at Kia’s 2025 EV Day in Spain, aims to redefine the in-vehicle and out-of-vehicle experience for PBV customers.
Attended by Sangdae Kim, Head of Kia’s PBV Division, and Chanwoo Park, Executive Vice President of Samsung Electronics’ B2B Integrated Offering Center, the partnership aligns with Kia’s vision of expanding PBVs beyond transportation into fully integrated business solutions.
Kia will incorporate Samsung’s SmartThings Pro IoT platform into its PBVs, enabling seamless wireless control of connected devices through a Plug & Play service. This allows business users to integrate and manage IoT-enabled appliances without complex installations—simply by attaching a smart connector.
Smart IoT Integration for Businesses
By integrating SmartThings Pro, Kia is enabling automated connectivity between PBVs and business spaces, allowing B2B customers to configure business routines based on the vehicle’s destination. Through the In-Vehicle Infotainment (IVI) system, businesses can monitor and manage external operations remotely.
For example:
- A bakery owner heading to a wholesale market can activate “Ingredient Purchase Mode,” automatically adjusting the vehicle’s refrigeration system to keep ingredients fresh.
- When returning to the store, “Commute Mode” can pre-condition the workspace, turning on air-conditioning, signage, and equipment while providing task reminders like inventory checks.
- After hours, “Closing Mode” ensures all appliances are turned off, energy-saving measures are applied, and security systems are activated. Owners will receive real-time alerts if any unusual activity or maintenance issues arise.
Beyond retail, hospitality venues can leverage “Unmanned Operation Mode” to remotely manage check-ins, unlock doors, control room environments, and monitor guest activity—all from the vehicle’s infotainment system.
AI-Powered Business Optimization
SmartThings Pro will leverage AI-driven pattern recognition to recommend and refine automated business routines. PBV owners can monitor and control these functions directly through the IVI system or a tablet device, ensuring seamless and efficient business management from anywhere.
This partnership marks a significant step in transforming PBVs into dynamic, AI-enhanced business solutions, offering unmatched connectivity and automation for enterprises on the move.
