Kia Corporation and Samsung Electronics have entered a strategic partnership to revolutionize the integration of IoT solutions in Kia’s Platform Beyond Vehicles (PBVs). This collaboration signifies a major step in enhancing the digital ecosystem of PBVs, expanding their role beyond traditional transportation to intelligent business solutions. The partnership was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding signed during Kia’s 2025 EV Day in Spain, with key executives from both companies in attendance. By incorporating Samsung’s SmartThings Pro platform, Kia aims to seamlessly connect PBVs with broader digital and business environments, offering business customers a more streamlined and automated experience.
Automated Business Solutions on the Move
The integration of SmartThings Pro allows Kia PBVs to wirelessly connect and manage IoT-enabled devices, creating a highly adaptable business environment on wheels. The ‘Plug & Play’ functionality enables business users to easily incorporate smart technology without complex installations, enhancing operational efficiency. With this system, businesses can automate essential processes such as refrigeration management for food transport, remote control of in-store equipment, and pre-configured business routines. Through AI-driven pattern recognition, SmartThings Pro will refine automated tasks, allowing business owners to maintain control via their vehicle’s infotainment system or mobile devices.
One of the most innovative aspects of this integration is its ability to automate and synchronize business operations with vehicle movement. For instance, small business owners can activate predefined modes such as ‘Ingredient Purchase Mode’ when heading to a supplier or ‘Commute Mode’ to prepare a store before arrival. Security measures, energy-saving features, and maintenance alerts are also automated, ensuring seamless business management even while on the road. Hospitality businesses can remotely handle customer check-ins, control climate settings, and monitor premises, optimizing service efficiency with minimal human intervention.
Looking ahead, Kia and Samsung plan to expand their collaboration to develop specialized IoT solutions tailored to diverse industries and global B2B clients. They will launch pilot programs for small businesses before scaling up their offerings, further refining IoT functionalities to meet the specific needs of different business sectors. This partnership exemplifies Korea’s leadership in smart technology and Kia’s commitment to advancing mobility solutions that seamlessly integrate with the digital economy. By merging cutting-edge IoT with vehicle technology, Kia’s PBVs are set to redefine how businesses operate, ensuring greater efficiency, automation, and connectivity on a global scale.
