Kia Corporation (A000270) Earnings Call Transcript & Summary

Good afternoon, everyone. I'm delighted to be here today to share Kia's answers to some of the important questions we all have about the future. As you just saw, Kia has undergone a total transformation since our global brand launch in 2021. Guided by our Plan S strategy, we have embraced the seismic industry trends that have forced all automotive OEMs to rethink their strategy for the future. And next chapter in our exciting transformation, toward becoming a Sustainable Mobility Solutions provider begins this week here in Las Vegas. Based on Kia's fundamental brand belief that movement inspires ideas, we continue to shape the future of mobility thanks to robust product portfolio featuring groundbreaking electric vehicles and a bold new design language. The much acclaimed EV6 is now joined by its largest sibling, the EV9, which transcends traditional SUV thinking and represents the pinnacle of Kia's design and engineering capability. I'm proud to say that just last week, the EV9 was named the 2024 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year. And next in line are the EV5, EV4, and EV3, which will accelerate EV popularity among the mass majority. And following our announcement of achieving carbon neutrality throughout the entire Kia value chain by 2045, we have been actively involved in global sustainability initiatives that drive tangible changes like our 7-year partnership with the Ocean Cleanup. In addition to raising awareness and finding innovative solutions to the problem of the ocean plastic pollution, we are researching ways to integrate the recycled ocean plastic into Kia vehicles. Meanwhile, as we learn in detail today, we are taking a truly customer-centric approach to everything that we do. So what's next on Kia's road to becoming a Sustainable Mobility Solutions provider? We are here at CES this week to officially launch Kia's global Platform Beyond Vehicle business. The Kia PBV business represents our vision of going beyond the traditional concept of automobiles by fulfilling the unmet needs of diverse customers and communities through optimized vehicles and services catering to specific market and business circumstances. Kia PBVs, our total mobility solution that combines fit-for-purpose EVs with advanced software solutions based on Hyundai Motor Group's software-defined everything or SDx strategy. As a Platform Beyond Vehicles, Kia PBVs will open the door to new businesses and lifestyles by redefining the concept of space thanks to advanced and tailored interior that provide ultimate freedom and flexibility. Such innovative use of space will also reinvent the concept of time by enabling more efficient, reliable, and meaningful in-vehicle experience. By showcasing Kia's future PBV lineup and cutting-edge software-based solutions, including the Kia Concept PV5, that will enter mass production in 2025, we are excited to show that we are fully prepared to be the first mover in the global PBV market. Our decision to pioneer the creation of this new mobility space was shaped by the many external changes happening around us as well as our customer-centric business approach. Smart mobility, the shared economy, and e-commerce have emerged as key pillars of the global marketplace due to rapid digital transformation. And the mobility and logistics industries have been under the most pressure to quickly adapt to these changes. For starters, we re-categorize common business types according to use case and name them domains. Our aim is to meet the needs of customers for each domain through the Kia PBV business. And we have directly met with the B2B customers from around the world in various domains such as hailing, logistics, and utilities, as well as with end-users of this business. After listening to countless real voices, it became clear that, there is a great sense of rejuvenation with what's currently available in the market. Many LCV business approaches of today are more focused on the supply side than customer needs. The use of existing platforms narrows down customer options. And those that simply focus on reducing total cost of ownership often lack the innovation required to quickly respond to changing customer requirements. Based on these considerations, we at Kia have shifted the decision-making standard to the and established a comprehensive PBV-specific business system to resolve hidden customer pain points, while at the same time restoring the right to mobility for all. Going beyond total cost of ownership, we seek to create continuous added value so that customers can enjoy a variety of new experiences throughout their vehicle's lifecycle, unlike with the existing LCVs. Throughout the journey that lies ahead, Kia PBVs will be an enabler of business innovation thanks to our customer-centric management system, EV mass production expertise, and Hyundai Motor Group's quickly materializing SDx strategy and related future businesses. As devices that offer a tailored solution according to the customer's usage patterns, Kia PBVs will be pivotal in realizing the Group's SDx vision. In Phase 1, our first mid-PBV, the Kia PV5, will be an EV optimized for major domains such as hailing, delivery, and utilities that features conversion capability for diverse customer needs. Additionally, enhanced data connectivity between vehicles and external data such as route or delivery information will enable convenient operation of multiple vehicles as a software-defined fleet. This emergence of the customized business fleet, and PBV specific solutions means less downtime and enhanced cost effectiveness. Next, in Phase 2, PBVs will evolve into an AI-based mobility platform that uses data to interact with users and ensure that it is always up-to-date. The completion of a dedicated PBV lineup will expand domain coverage to large logistics companies, mobility businesses, and private lifestyle users. Meanwhile, real-time vehicle data will be shared with city management systems, enabling us to continuously provide customers with advanced mobility solutions using optimized fleet management system-controlled digital data. Expanding the scope of data connectivity will support AI-driven vehicle control and management, as well as the automation and autonomous processes of customer businesses. An integrated PBV solution will provide a customized seamless experience across devices and software. Meanwhile, new forms of business linked with robotics and other future technologies will emerge. Finally, in Phase 3, Kia PBVs will have evolved into highly customizable bespoke mobility solutions by integrating with future mobility ecosystems. This is where Kia PBVs will ultimately become a live platform that turns any inspiration into reality. In addition, connected self-driving vehicles will be managed as part of a single smart city operating system. And with the emergence of the hyper-connected world where people, PBVs, and social infrastructure are seamlessly linked, we'll open the door to completely new lifestyles by creating a robust PBV ecosystem based on Hyundai Motor Group's future technologies for autonomous driving, advanced air mobility, robotics, and the energy grid. As you can see, Kia's Platform Beyond Vehicle will soon change the world of mobility. And we will enter an era where PBVs become the mobility standard. Our objective at Kia is clear. We are here to change the way we work, the way we move, and the way we live. We are all set for every inspiration. Thank you. [Presentation]

Hello, ladies and gentlemen. My name is Karim Habib, and I'm responsible for design at Kia. I'd like to share some of the details of what I believe are amazing PBVs and a little bit of our vision for the future. So at the very beginning of this project, before we even started designing, we looked at robust, simple and clever tools. We did so because with such tools, every feature is designed to be simple, easy and intuitive to use. That is our mission. Whether for hailing, for logistics or for personal activities, Kia PBVs will come in a wide range of body types and interior arrangements. Meanwhile, we have aimed for consistency in design across the entire range, with each vehicle sharing the same solid, bold character and capable attitude. But here today, at CES, we're very excited to present concept models of our future PBV lineup, and tell you a little bit about the symbiotic ecosystem in which they exist. As with all ecosystems, PBVs cannot exist in isolation. They are designed to interact with each other and create unexpected synergies. This is achieved through extensive modularization, where interchangeable items throughout the entire range allow for limitless usage possibilities, whether it's for business or for pleasure. Now, let's take a look at a short design video of the Kia Concept PV5. [Presentation]

So, as we've just seen, our first PBV, the PV5, will come in various versions, including basic, high roof, robotaxi and pickup, all sharing the same roots, but each with a unique and precise purpose. The PV5 serves as the foundation for the range and offers a balance of generous interior space and a high level of practicality that is, in our view, ideal for small businesses. The high roof model further maximizes the spaciousness, of course with an expanded headroom, but also allowing the driver to stand upright and work comfortably in the cargo area. The PV5R or Robotaxi showcases the exciting future of an autonomous hailing experience. Finally, the pickup emphasizes the possibilities and practicality familiar to customers in many parts of the world. A closer look at the PV5 reveals a unique identity that is emphasized through the simple yet robust surface language and expressive graphics. Regardless of which use case the vehicle is adapted for, the clever the vehicle is adapted for, its clever and thoughtful design means it will always be easy and intuitive to use. Large doors reveal an extensive opening that facilitates the easy ingress into and egress out of the vehicle, while also providing seamless convenience for those with physical disabilities. Inside the vehicle, the wide flat open space made possible by the EV platform and as well the extended wheelbase offers endless possibilities. Its unrivaled flexibility is punctuated by innovative sliding 2-way flip seats. Drivers can also enjoy an office-like experience thanks to the living space inspired cockpit featuring a steering wheel that articulates upwards and transforms into a desk lamp, while making space for a wide desk-like surface. The extensive use of sustainable materials highlights of course our responsibility towards our planet and considers our impact on future generations. But it also simply adds, for me as a designer, its important aesthetic and tactile appeal. So as well, once additional models become available to our customers, we expect to see dramatic effect of this symbiosis within the PBV ecosystem. The Kia PV7 not only offers the largest space in the lineup but also has the greatest range. And being an all-rounder, it is the more capable solution in most use cases. Contrastingly, the PV1 is optimized for agile and short distance logistics transportation. It is the smallest in the lineup and uses our driving modules to minimize the turning radius in narrow spaces. The symbiosis lies in the interaction and connectivity between the 2 vehicles and the PV5. As you can see, the PV7's spacious qualities for long distance logistics synergize with the PV1's agility for an optimized last mile delivery solution. Now, returning to the concept of modularity, a clever system of frames and cabinets showcases the benefits of the interaction and connectivity between vehicles. Aligned load heights and floor-integrated rail system enables direct and seamless transfer of items between vehicles for maximized efficiency and minimized downtime. Meanwhile, the tile and rail system integrated into the ceiling, the floor, and the side panels of the interior as well as on sections of the exterior helps you adapt the vehicle to your own personal needs. The rails allow for easy transfer of items between vehicles, while the modularity of the tiles and functional accessories, for example from speakers to shelves, provide endless flexibility for almost any scenario. The Kia PBV experience extends beyond the physical boundaries of the vehicle and are the ultimate business and lifestyle enablers, designed to make your everyday easier, more efficient, and more enjoyable. And now joining me to discuss Kia's dedicated PBV business system and related technologies is our Vice President, PBV Business Division, Pierre-Martin Bos.

Hello, everyone. Good afternoon, everyone and good afternoon Karim. I'm very happy to be here with all of you in Las Vegas for the global launch of our Kia PBV business.

Welcome Pierre.

Thank you.

So first of all thank you for being here and could you tell us a little bit about the PBV system -- the business system?

Of course Karim, releasing PBVs into the market is much more than just a new car launch. So we have built a dedicated business system to provide customized solutions for each customer domain. The Kia PBV business is the pinnacle of our customer-centric business approach, as we have engaged customers from the very early planning stages. We continue to listen to customers requirements and we reflect their feedback into the development of our products and business models. In fact, one participant called it, I quote, a groundbreaking process that has never been tried before. I believe that such a deep engagement with real customers gives us a unique insight into creating PBVs that will maximize business efficiency and usage experiences.

So Kia has been working closely with customers in developing the products that we're seeing here at CES. So can you tell us a little bit more about the hardware aspect?

Well Karim, you already did an excellent job in introducing the PV5 as well as the PV7 and PV1. So I'd just like to add that Kia PBVs will deploy a dedicated skateboard-based EV platform. This platform will feature interchangeable upper bodies or what we call life modules. Existing LCV businesses build vehicles, which are not designed for conversion from the production stage. That can result in costly, time-consuming, and non-eco-friendly processes to remove attached parts from the completed vehicles. We at Kia have streamlined this complex process to further strengthen hardware flexibility. Our easy swap technology allows us to satisfy customer requirements in various domains and respond to the most segmented needs. With a fully dedicated platform and host of specialized technologies, Kia PBVs also differentiate themselves in terms of durability, space utilization, and operational functionality.

So for example, you can quickly change from a home office to a camper or even according to your lifestyle, you can have different layouts. So with this high degree of modularization, what does that mean? We plan to expand use cases from people moving and delivery to urban-centric real-time delivery and ride-sharing domains. So could you also tell us Pierre about the PBV manufacturing system?

Well, many EV startups are attempting to make the transition to the new mobility paradigm, but they still have difficulties bringing mass production to reality. At Kia however, earlier this year we began the construction of our PBV dedicated Hwaseong EVO plant in Korea. Our initial PBV production capacity of 150,000 units per year in 2025 will grow gradually and globally to 300,000 units. We plan to establish an innovative, highly automated production system that unifies the newly introduced cell method with the original conveyor system to allow flexible production and more customization options. One of our innovative PBV manufacturing technologies is called Dynamic Hybrid, which is a weldless body structure assembly method that allows for horizontal and vertical expansion of cross-members according to the varying needs of the customers.

This is some pretty impressive technology. But now let's look at the other side of the Kia PBVs, the software side. So when a vehicle is developed around the operating system, we can improve so many aspects of design and usability. We can truly focus on the customer and constantly adapt to their needs. So let us start with the In Vehicle Infotainment or IVI. The IVI solution is designed to make daily life as smooth as possible. It recognizes the user, their purpose and operational needs in real-time, automatically loads the user's profile, presets and preferences and provides useful and relevant contextual data.

Yes Karim, a Kia voice-controlled IVI solution will provide access to the Kia PBV app market as well as third-party developed apps. Installed apps are continuously updated via OTA. That means that our customers can enjoy the latest information and entertainment content on the go and they can seamlessly access personalized data-supported services such as charging, parking and payment. And by connecting the IVI system with business-specific apps that were previously limited to mobile devices, both service convenience and information reliability can be improved through control and monitoring. In other words, you can enjoy a holistic user experience regardless of hardware form factors.

Thank you. So next, our Fleet Management Solution or FMS. It enables customers to seamlessly manage multiple Kia PBVs. The FMS solution supports small businesses in mobility or logistics by collecting all relevant data and providing actionable insights so that users can keep track of things like sales, inventory and deliveries. The solution also monitors the inventory in the cabinets, controls the temperature and reduces downtime by intelligently planning your route based on how items are stacked in the cabinets. It can also arrange the seamless transfer of a specific cabinet to another PBV, for example, the last mile deliveries with the PV1. Likewise, the FMS solution can display the contents and condition of items in the frames for increased convenience and efficiency. The scope of interior flexibility is also enhanced thanks to the ability to monitor and update seating arrangements directly from the screen.

Thank you very much, Karim. And in addition, we can control, we can use the Vehicle Data API to control and manage the vast amount of data generated during PBV operation in real-time and connect it with AI in the cloud to manage fleets more efficiently. Also, business insights such as predictive maintenance based on driving patterns and other vehicle data help to minimize downtime and maximize operational efficiency.

So, lastly, our EV charging solutions. They're cleverly optimized. They do so by taking into consideration battery charge levels, routes and schedules, as well as breaks and meal times. The system provides optimal charging scheduling and charging station guidance.

That's right, Karim. And in addition, we aim to realize a total energy solution based on advanced charging infrastructure such as V2X. This makes it possible to use existing high-density energy batteries to power mobile devices, emergency equipment, or just anything else you need.

So, Kia's PBV software solutions will be applied, obviously, to PV5, PV7, and PV1. And over time, Kia PBVs will become a platform that accumulates digital data across various domains, strengthening connectivity between vehicles and eventually integrating with the social infrastructure. Of course, we cannot do that all by ourselves. So, before you leave us, Pierre, please tell us about how Kia is collaborating with major clients and technology partners.

Well, Karim, by leveraging our PBV dedicated business system with ready-for-market solutions, I'm happy to announce that we're entering this week a major global partnership here at CES with Uber. Stay tuned, there will be more to come on the 10th. In fact, by securing trust through communicating from the customer's perspective, we have signed MOUs with Coupang and CJ Logistics in the delivery domain, and Dubai Taxi Company and Kakao Mobility in the hailing domain. With our aim to develop PBVs and solutions tailored to their business environments, we are confident that these strong partnerships will be a driving force to become a sustainable mobility solutions provider.

Indeed, we aim to be a sustainable mobility solutions provider. Meanwhile, we're also continuing to discover new creative opportunities, pairing Kia PBVs with robotics, or Advanced Air Mobility, or AAM. We're enhancing automated logistics with the Stretch Robot from Boston Dynamics, as well as the Spot Robot for round-the-clock process and quality control at PBV smart factories. We're also collaborating with Supernova, another group affiliate, to accelerate the realization of smart cities through the launch of AAM mobility businesses.

Absolutely. And furthermore, progress in autonomous driving will accelerate the growth of the PBV market. The PV5R, or what we call the Robotaxi, is now under development in conjunction with Motional, which is a leader in autonomous technology. We are currently in pilot operation, and we plan to achieve Level 4 autonomous driving in the near future through application of Motional's third-generation system. Hyundai Motor Group's advanced software capabilities will be applied to the operation, the control, and the management of various mobility devices, including PBVs, obviously, opening an era of hyper-connectivity between people and things. And now, Karim will show us the future that Kia dreams of, where all of these mobility innovations will become part of everyday life, thank you.

Thank you, Pierre.

Thank you.

So now, ladies and gentlemen, I'd like to give you a glimpse into a far future vision for us at Kia. As you all know, we live in a world of accelerated change, and we're constantly reminded of those challenges that range from the economy to the environment, and through Kia PBV products and solutions, we aspire to build a better future. We're creating a new concept of space, be it a living room, an office, or even a workshop, that allows you to live and work the way you want. It's a shapeable space that helps you improve your life. And we hope to make our customers' lives easier and better, whether they're stationary, or on the move, offering unmatched flexibility and customization through radical modularization. Un-tethered by any fixed space, and unbounded by the traditional restrictions of space, Kia PBVs offer users a blank canvas to re-imagine their lifestyles and work styles. At Kia, we see our PBVs becoming part of everyday life. And as we redefine the concept of space and mobility, moving and customizing our spaces will be a natural way of life. Integrated in our city infrastructure, interaction among PBVs will transform our spaces. For example, it can be a market by day, or a restaurant in the evening, or even a capsule hotel at night. Kia PBVs will become a mobile extension of your space, a seamless life experience, uninterrupted by movement that flexibly enables you to live how and where you want. Life and work are no longer bound to defined fixed places. In addition to naturally being zero-emission vehicles, we envision PBVs as integral to reshaping how energy powers our cities. Responsibly produced energy can be distributed to the grid by the PBVs themselves, minimizing the environmental impact associated with traditional power plants and fossil fuels, and reducing considerable costs of supplying electricity across our city infrastructure. So, ladies and gentlemen, as you can see, we believe Kia PBVs are a clever, thoughtful product with a radical level of flexibility, modularization, and software integration. But the true value they bring is how they shape our conceptions of space and time, how they seamlessly become part of our everyday. Whether for private, business, or family use, the heart of Kia PBVs lies in the people and communities they serve. This is our vision for an optimistic, positive future. And we invite you to join us and make this future a reality.