Kia has launched a wheelchair-accessible automobile (WAV) iteration of its first electrical van. The PV5 WAV affords a number of accessibility options, equivalent to a side-entry system so a wheelchair person can board the van from the sidewalk, and a quick-use entry ramp rated for 300kg (661 lbs). It's outfitted with a tip-up seat within the third row so different riders can help a wheelchair passenger from the aspect. The PV5 WAV additionally has a wheelchair-specific belt fastening system.
The model collaborated with Motability Operations on the debut of the PV5 WAV. Motability Operations is a long-term companion of the UK's automobile leasing plan that helps individuals with disabilities to have an accessible mode of transportation.
"By integrating cutting-edge Platform Past Automobile (PBV) know-how with considerate design, we’re paving the way in which for a future the place everybody can get pleasure from the advantages of sustainable mobility, and our partnership with Motability Operations is a testomony to our dedication to creating this imaginative and prescient a actuality," Sangdae Kim, govt vice chairman and head of Kia's PBV Division, stated. The PBV tech has been the muse for just a few of Kia's new automobile bulletins over the previous yr, together with at CES 2024.
The usual mannequin of the PV5, Kia's first electrical van, not too long ago started pre-orders within the UK. Kia hasn't shared pricing data but concerning the WAV mannequin, however the non-WAV model retails beginning at £32,995 (about $44,000).
This text initially appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/transportation/evs/kia-debuts-the-pv5-wav-a-wheelchair-ready-electric-van-200554987.html?src=rss
