The Road to Sustainable Destinations Starts Here
In a significant stride toward transforming luxury tourism with cutting-edge sustainable technology, Kia Corporation has launched a pilot agreement with global real estate developer Red Sea Global (RSG). This collaboration will see the deployment of Kia’s next-generation electric vehicles, beginning with the highly anticipated Kia PV5, at Saudi Arabia’s flagship sustainable destinations.
First signed in May 2025, the agreement centers on the innovative Kia PV5, a vehicle developed under Kia’s global Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) business strategy. These vehicles are designed to combine robust commercial utility with modular adaptability, making them a perfect fit for RSG’s commitment to sustainable, future-forward mobility.
Localized Testing for a Global Vision
As part of the pilot, Kia is supplying RSG with a PV5 Passenger model for rigorous, localized testing across key service scenarios. This includes:
- Airport-to-resort transfers
- Inter-resort transport services
- Broader fleet operations
While this initial deployment focuses on two of Saudi Arabia’s ultra-luxury destinations—The Red Sea and AMAALA—the partnership is much broader. It serves as a vital platform for exploring future mobility solutions that directly support the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 strategy to achieve a net-zero society.
The Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) Advantage
Kia’s PBVs are engineered for maximum adaptability and operational efficiency. They combine advanced electric mobility with sophisticated software and highly configurable interiors, offering flexible and customizable solutions tailored specifically for the hospitality and tourism sectors.
To ensure seamless integration, Kia has conducted on-site inspections, provided comprehensive product training, and delivered technical instruction to RSG’s operations teams. Furthermore, Kia’s authorized distributors will offer hands-on guidance and localized expertise throughout the trial period.
Leaders on the Collaboration
The partnership is rooted in a shared ambition to transform the future of mobility and sustainable development.
Hokeun Chung, Executive Vice President and Head of Future Strategy Division at Hyundai Motor Group (HMG), highlighted the long-term vision: “Saudi Arabia is a strategically important market for Hyundai Motor Group, and we are pleased to begin our collaboration with RSG through the PBV Pilot project. In the mid-to-long term, HMG and RSG plan to collaborate on new business opportunities utilizing innovative smart city technologies, such as in-vehicle solutions, data, robotics, and more… we look forward to supporting RSG’s vision of an ultra-luxury, eco-friendly smart city.”
Hans Aksel Pedersen, Group Head of Operations at Red Sea Global, emphasized the commitment to responsibility: “At Red Sea Global, we are committed to setting new benchmarks in responsible development and sustainable operations. While our guest land fleet is already 100% powered by sunlight, this pilot program with Kia allows us to test the most cutting-edge, eco-conscious mobility solutions in our destinations. Together, we are reimaging how people move through and connect with the world’s most exceptional places.”
Ahmed Soudodi, Vice President of Product Marketing, Kia Middle East & Africa, praised the natural synergy: “This collaboration is a natural fit, driven by a shared ambition to transform the future of mobility through innovation, sustainability, and a deep understanding of customer experience. By combining Kia’s next-generation PBV technology with Red Sea Global’s pioneering approach to responsible development, we’re creating a blueprint for smarter, cleaner, and more connected travel across the region.”
A Long-Term Commitment to Innovation and Growth
Looking ahead, the collaboration has ambitious plans. Kia and RSG are exploring the use of PV5 Cargo variants for specialized resort logistics and the production of a special PV5 version specifically tailored for ultra-luxury hospitality operations.
This pilot builds on the Strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in March 2024 between Hyundai Motor Group and RSG. The initiative is overseen by the HMG Smart City Innovation Group, with Kia acting as the official OEM and mobility partner.
Beyond the current project, the partners will evaluate the potential deployment of the PV7, Kia’s upcoming large-format electric PBV designed for high-capacity use, expected to launch in 2027. This forms part of Kia’s aggressive PBV strategy, which aims to launch the PV9 in 2029 and achieve a global sales target of 250,000 PBVs by 2030.
Conclusion: Empowering Sustainable Travel
This partnership marks a significant step forward in delivering meaningful innovation. By combining Kia’s deep expertise as a Sustainable Mobility Solutions Provider with Red Sea Global’s leadership in regenerative tourism, this collaboration is setting a new global standard. Smart mobility is not just a feature—it is the catalyst for a new era of sustainable travel and operational excellence.
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