Kia made its entry into Purpose Built Vehicles (PBVs) segment with Carens at the Auto Expo 2023
New Delhi (India CSR):Â After showcasing Carens as Purpose-Built Vehicles at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024, Kia India announced the delivery of 71 specially customised Carens to the Punjab Police. These PBVs will be used as Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV) to provide immediate assistance to citizens during emergencies. With its entry into the PBV segment, Kia aims to address the gap of the diverse mobility requirements of specialised institutions in India.
Kia Carens became the preferred mobility choice of Punjab Police on account of its latest technology, connected features, bigger wheelbase, and better 3rd-row comfort.
The customized Carens features a Smartstream 1.5 Petrol engine with a 6-speed Manual transmission. The PBV includes custom High-Intensity Strobe lights, PA Systems, and ‘Dial 112 – Emergency Response Vehicle’ Decals. It features a higher capacity battery of 60Ah to run the additionally fitted equipment. The Carens has the biggest wheelbase in or above its segment making it a most practical choice for Police Departments.
Talking about practicality, the specially designed Carens features 2nd row 60:40 split, 3rd row 55:50 split, all rows adjustable headrests, a 12V Power Socket and 5 USB Type-C Ports to offer utmost flexibility to Punjab Police Officials. Like standard Carens models, the PBV also hosts High Strength Steel structure and all the latest technologies like All Wheel Disc Brakes, ABS, Idle Stop & Go and TPMS, to name a few.
Commenting on the delivery of 71 Carens as PBVs, Myung-sik Sohn – Chief Sales and business Officer, Kia India, said, “Purpose-Based Vehicles (PBVs) represent the future of mobility as they offer the possibility of extensive customization to meet specific mobility requirements. Kia is proud to team up with the Punjab Police in delivering technologically enhanced Carens as PBVs, tailored to offer the best and safest driving experience, particularly for longer journeys. The spacious interiors and comfortable headrests make it an ideal mobility solution.”
“With strategic partnerships like this, we aim to broaden the appeal of a family mover like Carens to all institutions looking for a 7-seater mobility solution.”
The police car and an ambulance based on the Carens were first showcased at the 16th edition of the Auto Expo in 2023. Kia Carens also won the ‘Indian Car of the Year’ honour in the same year. With the delivery of PBV, Kia restates its dedication to addressing the evolving needs in mobility by providing suitable solutions. The PBVs mirror the shifting patterns in mobility, where vehicles are extensively customizable to meet the demands of both customers and the market, resulting in elevated levels of customer satisfaction. The delivery showcases Kia’s vision of becoming a leader in the global PBV segment by 2030.Â
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(India CSR)
