#South Korea #Seoul #Kia #Samsung #SmartThings

Kia and Samsung Partner to Enhance PBV Solutions

Kia Corporation has joined forces with Samsung Electronics to redefine the experience surrounding its Platform Beyond Vehicles (PBVs). Announced during Kia's 2025 EV Day in Tarragona, Spain, this strategic partnership is set to incorporate Samsung’s SmartThings Pro into Kia’s PBV offerings, providing businesses with a seamless integration of IoT technology.

A New Era for Business Vehicles

The collaboration marks a significant leap forward for both companies, aiming to transform PBVs into more than just transportation options. According to Sangdae Kim, Head of Kia's PBV Division, the vehicles are being reimagined as intelligent business solutions that fit into larger digital ecosystems. This initiative is positioned to allow small business owners and the self-employed to customize and manage these vehicles efficiently, adapting to specific business needs without complicated installations.

SmartThings Pro Integration

The centerpiece of this collaboration is Samsung’s SmartThings Pro, a B2B IoT platform designed to enable wireless control and monitoring of connected devices. When integrated into Kia’s PBVs, it facilitates automated vehicle and business environment interactions. For example, business customers will be able to set specific routines activated based on the vehicle's destination, enhancing operational efficiency on the road.

Kia’s “Plug & Play” model will simplify the adoption of this technology, as it will allow users to attach a smart connector to facilitate the integration of IoT-enabled appliances, transforming any PBV into a customized business hub.

A Vision for Future Developments

Looking ahead, the partnership aims to explore a variety of potential IoT solutions tailored specifically for the unique challenges faced by different industries. The first phase involves launching pilot services that will specifically target small business owners and self-employed individuals. This phased approach allows Kia and Samsung to gather valuable feedback and refine their offerings before a broader rollout.

As Chanwoo Park, Executive Vice President at Samsung Electronics, mentioned, “By integrating SmartThings Pro, we are presenting an intelligent new way for businesses to connect with their customers.” Such foresight suggests that both companies are committed to providing optimized solutions that enhance operational frameworks across various sectors.

Expanding Global Reach

The alliance not only represents a merger of automotive and technology capabilities but also emphasizes the potential for global expansion of PBV business solutions. Kia and Samsung's collaborative strategy may well set the stage for introducing innovative business models tailored to B2B clients around the world. As they work together on evolving IoT product lines for PBVs, these firms are well-positioned to meet the growing demand for smart technology within the realm of transportation and logistics.

Ultimately, this partnership showcases how traditional industries like automotive can evolve by embracing modern technologies such as IoT, leading to new business paradigms. It speaks to the broader trend towards smarter and more interconnected urban mobility solutions, reflecting Korea's vision as a leader in advanced technology. As Kia and Samsung delve deeper into their partnership, the implications for businesses and their customers could be transformative, marking a pivotal moment in both companies' histories.

Through this innovative collaboration, Kia and Samsung exemplify how businesses can harness technology to create enhanced user experiences, signaling a future where vehicles are not just modes of transport but integrated business solutions.