Kia announced on the 10th that it will begin full-scale production of the next-generation military medium tactical vehicle (KMTV·Kia Medium Tactical Vehicle).
On the same day, Kia held a 'next-generation medium tactical vehicle production and delivery commemorative ceremony' at the Auto Land Gwangju Hanam plant. Over 100 people attended the ceremony, including Kim Ik-tae, head of Kia's Special Business Division, and the director of the Ministry of National Defense's Resource Management Office.
The next-generation medium tactical vehicle is a model that has come out for the first time in 48 years since 1977. Since signing a contract with the Army in 2019, Kia has gone through development processes such as prototype development, development testing, operational testing evaluation, first trials, and pre-production.
The next-generation medium tactical vehicle will be launched in two models: 2.5 tons and 5 tons. Each is equipped with a 280-horsepower and a 330-horsepower diesel engine, and includes an 8-speed automatic transmission.
It features the ability to cross rivers with a depth of 1 meter and to navigate 60% longitudinal slopes (ascending and descending the slope in both forward and reverse) and 40% lateral slopes (driving while tilted sideways). It is also designed with electromagnetic shielding and can start even at minus 32 degrees Celsius.
Additionally, it includes run-flat tires that can maintain a certain speed even if their air pressure decreases, and it can carry up to 25 passengers. Furthermore, despite being a military vehicle, it is equipped with features such as an around-view monitor, air suspension seats, front and rear cameras, and navigation.
Kia plans to supply it to domestic and foreign customers after delivering it to the Korean Army this month.
A Kia official noted, 'Kia's military vehicles are gaining recognition for their off-road performance and durability, expanding global sales,' and added, 'We will continue to present the future vision of military mobility by developing special vehicles that assist in the safe movement of the military by applying innovative technologies.'