EXCLUSIVE: Kia unveils PV5 electric van

February 26, 2025

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Kia has unveiled the futuristic PV5 electric van at the 2025 Kia EV Day in Tarragona, Spain. The world premiere was held on 24 February, and we were the only South African publication invited to attend. The launch signals a major shift for the brand; although it has dabbled in vans in the past, the Korean company is far better known for its sedans and SUVs.

Kia’s move into the van market

Kia’s history with vans includes models like the Kia Besta light commercial van and minibus (1980s–2000s) and the Kia Pregio (1995–2006), which served as its larger successor. However, neither model positioned Kia as a leading van manufacturer (like brands such as Volkswagen, Renault, Ford, and Mercedes-Benz). With the PV5, Kia is now aiming to change this.

The PV5 is the first production model to emerge from Kia’s much-publicised Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) strategy. The van will be built on Kia’s E-GMP.S platform, a dedicated battery-electric skateboard architecture. The E-GMP.S platform is significant because it enables Kia to build highly adaptable, cost-effective, and efficient electric vehicles (EVs) for multiple industries. By using a flexible, modular foundation, Kia can expand its PBV strategy, meeting the evolving demands of businesses and personal users without reinventing the wheel for each new model. This makes the PV5 – and future Kia PBVs – versatile, scalable, and future-proofed for the electric era.

Configurations and design flexibility

Kia’s innovative Flexible Body System allows different upper body modules to be swapped onto the same chassis, making the PV5 a highly adaptable vehicle that can evolve based on customer needs.

From launch, the Kia PV5 will be available in passenger and cargo variants. The former will feature a three-row seat configuration, making it suitable for ride-hailing services and personal use. The design includes fold-and-dive seats, a lift-up tailgate, and ample luggage space. The PV5 Cargo – available in standard, long, and high-roof versions – will offer a maximum capacity of 5,165 litres and the ability to accommodate Euro pallets.

Kia has also confirmed that additional versions will follow, including a chassis cab, crew van, drop side, box van, freezer box, and light camper. In Spain, we also saw the PV5 transformed into a fascinating Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV). We specifically say “fascinating” because wheelchair users can enter the vehicle from the side, instead of from the rear.

Cutting-edge technology and electrification

The PV5 is powered by a choice of 51.5kWh or 71.2kWh battery packs, with an additional 43.3kWh option available for the Cargo model. A 120kW electric motor delivers 250Nm of torque, and the van boasts an estimated range of up to 400km, depending on the configuration.

Charging is another highlight, with fast-charging capabilities enabling a 10 to 80% charge in just 30 minutes.

Additionally, Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality allows users to power tools, appliances, and other electrical devices directly from the van – an essential feature for businesses and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Focus on sustainability and practicality

The PV5 embraces Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy, combining sleek aesthetics with robust functionality. The wonderfully funky yet practical interior is designed with modularity in mind, offering customisable storage spaces and Kia AddGear, an accessory system that lets owners modify the cabin after purchase.

The van is also built with eco-friendly materials, including thermoplastic olefin (TPO) flooring, which provides a durable, easy-to-clean alternative to traditional materials. Kia has also incorporated Android Automotive OS for its infotainment system, enabling business-specific applications and over-the-air updates.

Sales strategy

Sales of the Kia PV5 will begin in Korea and Europe in the second half of this year, with a global rollout planned for 2026. Kia is also expanding its PBV ecosystem through strategic partnerships with technology and mobility providers, including Uber and Samsung Electronics.

It is not clear when the PV5 will arrive in South Africa. “We will definitely explore options for South Africa, but we are still in the early stages. Feasibility studies, cost estimates, value propositions, and other evaluations will be done. At this point, we don’t have a set date,” a Kia South Africa spokesperson said.

It’s going to be extremely interesting to observe the rollout of this new van, because this isn’t just some arbitrary vehicle launch. If successful, the PV5 could redefine the brand’s presence in the commercial vehicle market, positioning Kia as a key player in the van segment – and not just a producer of sedans and SUVs.