Kia mentions that box trucks, refrigerated models, wheelchair-accessible variants, and even campervan versions of the van are forthcoming.
- The Kia PV5 is a fully electric, adaptable electric van available in various configurations including crew van, box van, refrigerated truck, and camper versions which are set to be released soon.
- It features a 161-horsepower engine and can travel up to 248 miles on a single charge.
- Kia has not dismissed the possibility of a U.S.-market version, but American import taxes make it costly to import commercial vehicles manufactured outside of North America.
At Kia’s 2025 EV Day, the focus was not solely on passenger cars; they also unveiled light commercial vehicles. They presented the production model of the PV5, marking the beginning of an extensive range of PBV (Beyond Vehicle Platform) trucks and vans that are expected to follow.
At launch, the PV5 will be available in three primary body styles: Passenger, Cargo, and Chassis Cab. These options allow various customers to customize their vehicles according to specific requirements due to the PBV’s flexible design. All PBVs will utilize an adapted version of the E-GMP.S platform, which is also found in the underlying structure of certain other models.
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The construction of the PV5 and its future variants will take place in a specialized facility, and the manufacturing process is quite intriguing. Kia has implemented what they call the Flexible Body System, allowing customers to customize precisely how their PV5s are assembled. According to the company, this system resembles putting together a jigsaw puzzle, potentially resulting in highly personalized vehicles. Additionally, Kia collaborated with experts from the commercial vehicle sector to offer various configurations for the PV5, including crew cabs, drop-side beds, large cargo areas, refrigerated compartments, and more. They also suggest that one might utilize a PV5 as a compact camping van.
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How do the various PV5 models differ visually? The passenger variant features a three-row seat setup along with a lift-up rear gate. It accommodates up to eight individuals arranged in a 2-3-3 configuration; however, you can recline or remove the seats for additional roominess during travel.
The PV5 Cargo models are designed to serve as the backbone of the series. They offer three variants: Standard, Long, and High Roof. Among these, the High Roof variant can also feature a Walk-Through option and includes a roof console as standard equipment. Boasting a maximum cargo capacity of up to 180 cubic feet and having a rear sill height of 16.5 inches (419 millimeters), this model allows for an impressive amount of loading space.
The optional L-track mounting system ensures that loading items securely becomes straightforward, while a vehicle-to-load (V2L) electrical outlet in the cargo space provides necessary power during transit. Additionally, Kia has integrated various data-collection features designed for fleet managers to perform predictive maintenance checks, monitor service timelines, and handle other tasks efficiently. This feature also allows wireless updates, eliminating the need for manual intervention like inserting a USB drive to update software. Consequently, this reduces downtime and keeps operations running smoothly.
For those needing extra space for future expansion, the Chassis Cab model of the PV5 is ideal. This variant features the same cabin as the Cargo version but lacks anything attached at the rear. This allows you to select exactly what goes on the back, enabling customization tailored specifically to your business needs.
The Crew Van version.
Additional versions are on their way. The Crew represents Kia’s proprietary internal modification model featuring specifications formerly attainable solely through outside customizers. Models such as the Drop Side, Box Van, and Freezer Box are also heading our way. According to Kia, even more choices will be available soon, suggesting that an electric #Vanlyfe rig might not be far off, possibly within just a few years.
However, there is already another specialized vehicle available on the platform. The Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV), known as the PV5, has a particular focus: ensuring wheelchair access. Unlike typical bulky modifications found elsewhere, this model was conceived specifically for individuals who use wheelchairs right from the start. This WAV boasts a ramp capable of supporting up to 661 lbs, which conveniently extends directly onto the sidewalk—a feature rarely seen among rival vehicles.
Inside, the interior includes a versatile wheelchair restraint system designed to securely hold passengers in place within the second-row seating area. This setup allows wheelchair users to remain near the front, enabling their companions to comfortably occupy the third row alongside them.
The WAV
If you’ve driven a Kia passenger car before, you’ll notice many similarities inside the PV5 series. The interior features physical buttons, touchscreen displays, and conventional controls. However, as this is a versatile vehicle, users will find it easier to customize their space compared to typical street cars. This offers numerous opportunities for customization to those who modify vehicles professionally.
When it comes to customizing the PV5, there are additional features specifically designed for commercial clients. This includes a 7-inch instrument cluster and a 12.9-inch navigation screen that enables fleet operators to install essential business applications via Android Automotive. By collaborating with Samsung and leveraging its IoT platform, SmartThings Pro, Kia aims to provide PVB customers with a more interconnected driving experience through their PV5 vehicles. These enhancements would enable owners to manage and oversee compatible smart heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), digital signage systems, household appliances, as well as various other smart office and home gadgets. Additionally, Kia has launched AddGear, which offers customizable add-ons aimed at enhancing usability within the vehicle interior. Available in multiple attractive exterior color options and crafted from sustainable materials, these accessories contribute towards a greener approach without compromising style or functionality.
The mounting rails are designed to hold accessories.
The PV5 will be equipped with a 161-horsepower engine delivering 184 lb-ft of torque, which receives power through one of three available batteries. For cargo versions of the PV5, customers have the option of selecting either a 43.3-kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, or two higher-capacity choices: a 51.5-kWh or a 71.2-kWh lithium nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) unit. Other models within the lineup are limited to choosing between the more powerful NMC pack variants. When measured using the WLTP test cycle, this vehicle has an upper limit range of approximately 248 miles. Additionally, when utilizing an appropriate fast-charging station, it’s possible to increase the state of charge from 10% to 80% in just half an hour.
Sales of the PV5 will commence in South Korea and Europe during late 2025, with additional markets opening up in 2026. However, the United States seems unlikely to be among them due to the Chicken Tax, which enforces a substantial 25% tariff on commercial vehicles manufactured outside of North America. This tax makes imported commercial models such as the Korea-produced PV5 economically unviable for American consumers.
At EV Day, Kia’s President and CEO Ho Sung Song addressed the possibility of introducing a version of the PV5 into the market over time, emphasizing that they will explore various opportunities as they arise. It’s clear that Kia’s strategy focusing on electric vehicles isn’t slowing down. Upcoming releases include the PV7 and PV9. Additionally, the fact that Kia begins this series with model “5” suggests potential future introduction of more compact variants.
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