South Korean automaker Kia Corp. has introduced a new mid-sized truck to its defense systems lineup, broadening its mobility solutions for military applications.
Presented at the firm’s center in Gwangju, the Kia Medium Tactical Vehicle (KMTV) will have an enhanced chassis that incorporates suspension seats, a wide-view monitoring device, and an integrated navigation solution.
It will have 2.5-ton (2,268-kilogram) and 5-ton (4,536-kilogram) variants that will serve as upgrades over Kia’s older medium tactical vehicle design introduced in the 1970s, according to Yonhap.
The KMTV will be fitted with a 280-horsepower or a 330-horsepower diesel engine, depending on its configuration and will come with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
For Korean Army, International Customers
Yonhap reported that Kia’s KMTV development is part of a 2019 project to assemble a next-generation military vehicle for the Republic of Korea Army.
The company has already completed the prototype, development, and test phases to build the production model.
This month, Kia is expected to begin delivering the KMTV to South Korean forces and, later, to global defense partners.
“Kia military vehicles are expanding their global sales in recognition of their rugged driving performance and durability,” a Kia spokesperson said.
“We will continue to present the future vision of military mobility by developing special vehicles that help the military move safely by applying innovative technology.”
