Kia PV5 WAV-based UD taxi to run on Seoul's streets

The Kia PV5 WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle) taxi, which can be used by both wheelchair users and the general public, will be the first of its kind to operate on the streets of Seoul.

Kia has announced that it will participate in the pilot operation of the 'Universal Design (UD) Taxi', which the Seoul Metropolitan Government will launch from Wednesday, 1 July.

Unlike existing call taxis for people with disabilities, the UD Taxi is a transport model introduced by the Seoul city government that can be used conveniently by both wheelchair users and ordinary passengers.

The PV5 WAV, introduced for the UD Taxi pilot, embodies Kia's commitment to providing greater freedom of movement for the mobility-impaired, offering optimal convenience and safety for wheelchair users.

Key features include: ▲A universal design electric vehicle accessible to both general passengers and wheelchair users ▲A low-floor design based on the dedicated EGMP.S platform with a spacious interior ▲A side-entry system designed for wheelchair user convenience, along with a wheelchair securing device ▲A structure allowing a companion to sit in the third row to assist the wheelchair user.

Prior to the pilot, Kia, together with the Seoul city government, listened to opinions from the taxi industry and held several demonstration sessions targeting wheelchair users to facilitate the introduction of the UD Taxi.

The Seoul city government will operate 12 PV5 WAV-based UD Taxis from July to December. Priority will be given to people with severe walking disabilities, while general passengers can use the service in the same way and at the same cost as existing mid-sized taxis.

Customer data, including usage statistics and satisfaction levels collected during the six-month pilot, will be used to determine whether to expand the UD Taxi operation in the future.

Starting with the UD Taxi pilot with the Seoul city government, Kia plans to promote cooperation with other local governments regarding vehicle supply and operation.

Addressing the shortage of call taxis for the disabled and maximising operational efficiency for the taxi industry

Through this UD Taxi pilot cooperation, Kia and the Seoul city government anticipate effectively responding to the increasing mobility demands of the transport-disadvantaged, including people with disabilities and the elderly, by alleviating the shortage of call taxis for the disabled.

Overseas, UD Taxis such as the UK's 'Black Cab' and Japan's 'Japan Taxi' have become established as everyday transport options used by both mobility-impaired and general passengers.

Furthermore, by enabling a single vehicle to support the mobility of disabled people as well as operate as a general taxi, it is expected to help improve operational efficiency and profitability for the taxi industry.