, with the eM architecture being dedicated to passenger vehicles when it is introduced in 2025. Meanwhile, the eS platform is of a “skateboard” design and will be used exclusively for purpose-built vehicles , and the company also revealed Kia will build a new plant dedicated to such vehicles.
Both platforms will use the group’s Integrated Modular Architecture that standardises batteries and electric motors to increase product development speed and efficiency. This will also help reduce costs, with the use of common parts making the upgrading of software systems easier to execute. The group has also operated a programme of 5.2 trillion won to better support its suppliers on their profit and loss, liquidity and competitiveness improvement measures. It notes that it will share cost burdens with its suppliers on the fluctuation of raw materials and reflect those changes in the prices of goods provided, paying around 3.4 trillion won for the increase in raw material delivery to more than 300 primary suppliers last year.
Additionally, it will help suppliers of internal combustion engine parts who wish to diversify their businesses by providing loans at interest rates lower than the market. Support will also be offered through external management consulting to suppliers seeking to develop new future business strategies and discover new business growth engines.