Latest news with #WAV
The Sun
05-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Kia Unveils PV5 WAV
KIA CORPORATION has unveiled its latest innovation in accessible transport with the debut of its PV5 Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) at the Financial Times' Future of the Car Summit, held in collaboration with the UK's Motability Operations Ltd. The showcase marks a significant advancement in Kia's global commitment to inclusive and sustainable mobility. The PV5 WAV, part of Kia's expanding Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) portfolio, represents a fusion of advanced electric vehicle technology and inclusive design. Developed specifically for individuals with mobility challenges, the model exemplifies the automaker's vision of a future where transport is equitable, sustainable, and accessible to all. Sangdae Kim, Executive Vice President and Head of the PBV Division at Kia, emphasised that the PV5 WAV is not merely a mode of transport, but a symbol of autonomy and empowerment. He noted that by combining innovative PBV architecture with human-centric design, Kia aims to ensure that individuals with disabilities can participate fully in the transition to electric mobility. The need for accessible transport is growing globally due to rising life expectancy and an ageing population, which is creating increasing demand for WAVs. Simultaneously, the decline in availability of traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, which were often adapted into WAVs, has created an urgent need for purpose-built electric alternatives. Kia's PV5 WAV is a direct response to this shift, offering a ready-made electric solution for the next era of mobility. Kia's efforts to champion mobility for all are long-standing. Since 2012, the company has implemented initiatives like the 'Green Trip' project in South Korea, aimed at improving travel access for people with disabilities. In 2021, Kia expanded its reach through a universal mobility pilot project in Los Angeles, providing accessible ride-hailing services for those with specific mobility needs. The new PV5 WAV has been meticulously designed to cater not only to wheelchair users but also to their caregivers and family members. Key features include a side-entry configuration for safe kerbside boarding, a third-row tip-up seat to facilitate assistance, and a reinforced entry ramp capable of supporting up to 300kg. The wheelchair restraint system has also been specially developed to maximise safety and ease of use. Manufacturing of the side-entry variant will take place at Kia's Hwaseong EVO Plant in Korea. The facility employs the company's Made-In-Plant system, which prioritises environmentally sustainable production processes. This approach aligns with Kia's broader strategy of reducing environmental impact while lowering entry barriers for those in need of accessible transport. On the technology front, the PV5 WAV integrates accessibility applications built on the Android Automotive Operating System (AAOS), ensuring intuitive operation for users with diverse needs. Kia's collaboration with Motability Operations, the UK's leading vehicle leasing provider for disabled drivers, is central to the rollout strategy. Through the Motability Scheme, individuals receiving eligible disability benefits are able to lease adapted vehicles that enable access to employment, healthcare, education and daily independence. This partnership strengthens Kia's role as a leader in sustainable, customer-focused mobility solutions. Looking ahead, Kia intends to extend its PBV WAV offerings beyond the UK, bringing the benefits of the PV5 to new markets as part of a global expansion of its inclusive mobility portfolio. This move reinforces the brand's objective of delivering electric, accessible solutions that serve humanity at large.
Auto Express
13-05-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Express
New Kia PV5 WAV fills gap in market for electric wheelchair accessible cars
Drivers who need wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs) have been mostly frozen out of the EV transition to date, as traditional converters in the sector struggle to overcome the challenges of working with new electric platforms. However, Kia is looking to fill this emerging gap in the market with a new WAV version of its new MPV, the PV5. Advertisement - Article continues below It's not just technical challenges converters face when thinking about lowering the floors of electric vehicles to create headroom for wheelchair users – a job that would typically require the battery pack to be modified or moved. There's an arguably greater challenge around the technical regulation defining what is and isn't permissible, because modifications to EV floorpans and battery packs would run into regulatory constraints around crash testing and fire resistance, which independent WAV converters simply can't afford to address. Floorpan and battery pack constraints are less of an issue for bigger electric vans such as the Kia PV5, because there's enough headroom for wheelchair users built-in already. To illustrate the point, Kia has revealed details of a WAV version of its forthcoming seven-seat MPV, designed to 'address challenges faced by wheelchair users, their families, care-givers and drivers'. While there are no specific details on price and spec, Kia has confirmed it's expecting the PV5 WAV to be available in the UK at some point in 2026, alongside the MPV, although no pricing details are currently available. 'With the continued growth of the sector projected to clash with the planned phasing out of ICE vehicles that would usually be converted into WAVs, the introduction of eWAV options is of vital importance,' the company says. Kia's entrant to the WAV market is notable for its built-in 300kg-rated side-loading ramps giving access from the pavement, and a specially developed wheelchair-anchoring system. There's also a third-row seat that Kia says will enable care-givers to assist wheelchair users from the side. Come and join our WhatsApp channel for the latest car news and reviews... Find a car with the experts EV affordability alarm! Running costs are £6k higher than for petrol cars, say car clubs EV affordability alarm! Running costs are £6k higher than for petrol cars, say car clubs Running costs for car share club EVs are £6k higher than ICE equivalents according to new data Not bothered by MoT advisories? That may be about to change Not bothered by MoT advisories? That may be about to change The number of MoT failures caused by worn tyres is on the rise, and experts are calling for mandatory follow-ups on advisories Mazda MX-5 goes electric: the iconic roadster's radical future Mazda MX-5 goes electric: the iconic roadster's radical future The next Mazda MX-5 roadster is set to be offered as a pure EV, and our exclusive images preview how it could look
Associated Press
05-03-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Curb Awarded Five-Year Renewal for Chicago's Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Program
City extends partnership following the program's 95-percent success rate and continued improvements in accessibility technology NEW YORK, March 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Curb, North America's leading taxi solutions and ride-hailing app for licensed taxis and for-hire rides, today announced the City of Chicago has renewed its contract to continue operating the city's exclusive Centralized Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) Taxicab Dispatch Service. The contract began March 1, 2025, with a two-year term and three optional renewals. Curb has managed this program since 2020, working with the city to consolidate access to WAV taxis through its digital platform and call-in service. Over the past four years, it has grown into one of the strongest WAV initiatives in the country, achieving a 95-percent trip completion rate. 'Chicago has built one of the most effective WAV programs in the country by making accessibility a priority,' said Amos Tamam, CEO of Curb. 'Since 2020, we've worked closely with the city and taxi drivers to make sure WAV service is reliable and efficient. This renewal allows us to continue improving the program and supporting the riders who depend on it every day.' Since the original contract was signed, Curb has introduced several updates to improve service for both passengers and drivers. An automated phone system now helps passengers request rides more efficiently while maintaining access to live agents. For drivers, Curb worked with the O'Hare International Airport to transition to a QR code-based voucher system, eliminating the need for paper vouchers and streamlining airport entry. More than 400 drivers participate in the program, alongside nearly 3,000 others Curb works with in Chicago, creating additional income opportunities. 'Chicago is proud to be a leader in offering accessible transportation options for residents and visitors,' said Ivan Capifali, Acting Commissioner, Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection. 'The selection of Curb to manage Chicago's Centralized Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Taxicab Dispatch Service shows the city's commitment to providing dependable ways to get around the city. Curb continues to enhance dispatch technology, encourage driver participation and ensure passenger comfort.' Chicago is one of the largest cities in the country with a single-vendor WAV program. Curb also operates in 65+ other cities where similar infrastructure supports accessible transportation initiatives. Since launching Curb Flow in 2023, Curb's network volume has increased by 4x, further strengthening its ability to optimize dispatch and improve accessibility initiatives like WAV programs. With the renewal, Curb will continue working with the city to improve the WAV program and ensure passengers receive reliable rides. WAV users can book through the Curb app or call the WAV line at 1-888-WAV-CABS (888-928-2227). To learn more about Curb, visit About Curb Curb is reimagining urban mobility with a driver-first approach to ride-hailing. Bringing upfront pricing to the largest nationwide network of taxis and licensed for-hire vehicles, Curb provides unparalleled transparency to riders and drivers alike. Curb is connected to over 100,000 drivers in dozens of cities across the US and UK, powering millions of taxi rides worldwide and facilitating billions of dollars in payment transactions annually through its open mobility platform. Curb has built an innovative suite of products that provide a unified supply of taxis and licensed for-hire vehicles - the first of its kind to bring solutions for passengers, drivers, and fleet management. Their B2B services power millions of rides for transit agencies, healthcare providers, and businesses while also providing effortless payments and advertising that reaches captive audiences of millions on Taxi TV.
Yahoo
06-02-2025
- Yahoo
Man arrested in connection with fatal car crash in Newport News
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (WAV) — Newport News police arrested a 21-year-old man in connection to a fatal car crash that occurred in November 2024. Police say driver killed in multi-vehicle crash in Newport News On Nov. 14, 2024, officers responded to a multi-vehicle crash at the intersection of Jefferson Avenue and Mercury Boulevard around 12:10 a.m. A preliminary investigation determined that a driver in a Nissan Vera was traveling westbound on Mercury Boulevard and drove through a red light striking a Chrysler 200, which was traveling southbound on Jefferson Avenue with a green light. This led both the Chrysler and Nissan to hit two other vehicles. The driver of the Chrysler, Calvin Gilmore-Vick, 41, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the Nissan, Deyonte Lamont Perkins, 21, was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Following the investigation, Perkins was arrested Tuesday, Feb. 4. He was charged with involuntary manslaughter and reckless driving. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
