Kia has announced that it has delivered specially customised Carens to Punjab Police. The law enforcement department of Punjab has inducted 71 units of these Purpose-Built vehicles (PBV) which will be used as Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV) to provide immediate assistance to citizens during emergencies.
The PBV version of Carens was showcased by Kia at the recently concluded inaugural edition of Bharat Mobility Show. With its entry into the PBV segment, Kia aims to address the gap of the diverse mobility requirements of specialised institutions in India. The Korean claims Carens became the preferred mobility choice of Punjab Police on account of its latest technology, connected features, bigger wheelbase, and better 3rd-row comfort.
Commenting on the delivery of 71 Carens as PBVs, 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.”
Kia Carens PBV: Specs & features
Powering the customised Carens PBV is a Smartstream 1.5-litre NA petrol engine with a 6-speed manual transmission. This motor kicks out 114 bhp and 144 Nm of peak torque. The PBV includes custom high-intensity strobe lights, PA systems, and ‘Dial 112 – Emergency Response Vehicle’ Decals. Further, tt features a higher capacity battery of 60Ah to run the additionally fitted equipment.
Given that Carens has one of the longest wheelbase in its segments, it is a 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 the standard model, the customised Carens PBV also hosts high-strength steel structure and functionalities like all-wheel disc brakes, ABS, Idle Stop & Go and TPMS, to name a few. The police car and an ambulance based on Carens were first showcased at the 16th edition of the Auto Expo in 2023. With the delivery of PBV, Kia restates its dedication to addressing the evolving needs in mobility by providing suitable solutions.
