Kia expands EV sharing service outside Seoul

[Courtesy of Kia Corp.]

Kia Corp. will launch its electric vehicle (EV) sharing service Wible Biz in Paju, a city outside Seoul, from July 15th, 2024, the automaker said on Friday.

Wible Biz allows companies and organizations to use EVs for work during designated weekday business hours, while individuals can use them for commutes or weekend leisure outside working hours. A total of 10 units of the Niro EV will be deployed to Paju for the service.

Paju city officials will use the Niro EVs for work on weekdays, while local residents and city employees can use them at night and on weekends for a fee. Reservations can be made via a mobile application, while pick-up and drop-off are possible at dedicated parking lots without keys. Customized services are provided not only for vehicle use, but also for management and charging, as well as information and technology solutions.

The automaker aims to expand the eco-friendly mobility ecosystem with this expansion. “We expect that the new EV sharing operation in Paju will contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions, as well as reduce the use of private cars and optimize parking space,” the automaker said.

The service is currently being used in other cities such as Gwangmyeong and Hwaseong in Gyeonggi Province, as well as South Gyeongsang Province.