Punjab Police has inducted 71 specially customised Kia Carens MPV into its fleet and will deploy these Purpose-Built Vehicles as Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV) to provide immediate assistance to citizens during emergencies. Kia launched the business of Purpose-Built Vehicles at Auto Expo 2023 and showcased the vehicles at the recent Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024.
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These customised Kia Carens were showcased in two formats, one as Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV) for police forces and one in ambulance format. With its entry into the PBV segment, Kia aims to address the gap of the diverse mobility requirements of specialised institutions in India.
Kia Carens became the preferred mobility choice of Punjab Police on account of its latest technology, connected features, bigger wheelbase, and better 3rd-row comfort. The PBV includes custom High-Intensity Strobe lights, PA Systems, and ‘Dial 112 – Emergency Response Vehicle’ Decals.
The customized Carens features a Smartstream 1.5 Petrol engine with a 6-speed Manual transmission. It features a higher capacity battery of 60Ah to run the additionally fitted equipment. The Carens has the biggest wheelbase in or above its segment making it a most practical choice for Police Departments.
Talking about practicality, the specially designed Carens features 2nd row 60:40 split, 3rd row 55:50 split, all rows adjustable headrests, a 12V Power Socket and 5 USB Type-C Ports to offer utmost flexibility to Punjab Police Officials. Like standard Carens models, the PBV also hosts High Strength Steel structure and all the latest technologies like All Wheel Disc Brakes, ABS, Idle Stop & Go and TPMS, to name a few.
Myung-sik Sohn – Chief Sales and business Officer, Kia India, said, “Purpose-Based Vehicles (PBVs) represent the future of mobility as they offer the possibility of extensive customization to meet specific mobility requirements. Kia is proud to team up with the Punjab Police in delivering technologically enhanced Carens as PBVs, tailored to offer the best and safest driving experience, particularly for longer journeys. The spacious interiors and comfortable headrests make it an ideal mobility solution.”
In April 2017, Kia India signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the State Government of Andhra Pradesh, India, to build a new manufacturing facility at Anantapur District. Kia commenced mass production in August 2019 and has an annual production capacity of 300,000 units.
Till date, Kia India has launched five vehicles for the Indian market – the Seltos, the Carnival, the Sonet, the Carens, and the EV6. Kia India has completed over 1.6 million vehicle dispatches from its Anantapur plant, including over 9.1 lakh domestic sales and close to 2.5 lakh exports.