Kia mentions that box trucks, refrigerated models, wheelchair-accessible variants, and even camper editions of the van are forthcoming.
- The Kia PV5 is a fully electric, adaptable electric van available in various configurations including crew vans, box vans, refrigerated trucks, and campers which are set to be released soon.
- It features a 161-horsepower engine and can travel up to 248 miles on a full charge.
- Kia has not dismissed the possibility of a U.S.-market version, but importing commercial vehicles from outside North America becomes costly due to U.S. import tariffs.
At Kia's 2025 EV Day, the focus was not solely on passenger cars; they also unveiled smaller commercial vehicles. They presented the production model of the PV5, which marks the beginning of an extensive range of PBV (Platform-Based Vehicles), including trucks and vans.
At launch, the PV5 will feature three primary body types: 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. Every PBV will utilize the E-GMP.S platform, which is an adapted form of the architecture found in similar models. Kia's EV6 , EV9 , et al. In this version, it’s a skateboarding device powered by a battery, designed with space atop to accommodate various body designs.
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 is similar to piecing together a jigsaw puzzle, potentially resulting in highly personalized vehicles. Additionally, Kia collaborated with seasoned experts from the commercial vehicle sector to offer various configurations for the PV5, including crew cabs, drop-side beds, large cargo compartments, refrigerated units, and more. They also mention that these vehicles can be adapted into light campers. As showcased at Sema .
How do the various PV5 models differ visually? The passenger variant features a three-row seat arrangement along with a flip-up rear door. It can accommodate up to eight individuals arranged as two rows of threes and one row of twos. However, you also have the option to stow the seats for additional roominess for both yourself and your guests.
The PV5 Cargo models are designed to serve as the backbone of the lineup. 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 an impressive maximum cargo capacity of up to 180 cubic feet and featuring a rear sill height of 16.5 inches (419 millimeters), this model allows for accommodating a substantial amount of goods inside.
The optional L-track mounting system simplifies load securement, while a vehicle-to-load (V2L) electrical outlet in the cargo space ensures access to power during transit. Additionally, Kia has integrated data tracking features for fleet management purposes, enabling predictive maintenance checks and monitoring of service routines among others. This setup supports remote updates via wireless technology, eliminating the need for manual intervention like plugging in a USB drive for software adjustments. As such, this feature keeps businesses running without interruptions due to required software upgrades.
For those needing extra space for future expansion, the Chassis Cab model of the PV5 is ideal. This option 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, tailoring it uniquely to fit your business needs.
The Crew Van version.
Additional versions will soon be available. The Crew represents Kia’s proprietary in-house customization model featuring specifications formerly attainable solely through outside tuners. Models such as the Drop Side, Box Van, and Freezer Box are also heading our way. According to Kia, even more choices are planned for the future, which suggests that an electric #Vanlyfe setup might not be far off 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 function: ensuring easy access for wheelchairs. Unlike conventional bulky modifications found elsewhere, this model was conceived specifically with wheelchair users in focus right from the start. This WAV features a ramp capable of supporting up to 661 pounds, which extends smoothly onto the pavement—a feature seldom seen among rival models. Within the cabin, an adaptable wheelchair restraint mechanism ensures passengers' safety and security in the secondary seating area, enabling them to stay near the front. Meanwhile, friends and family members have their own space in the tertiary seat section.
The WAV
If you've driven a Kia passenger car before, you'll notice similarities in the interior design of the PV5 series. The cabin features physical buttons, touchscreen displays, and conventional controls. However, as this is a modular vehicle, users will find it easier to customize their space compared to traditional cars. This offers ample opportunities for upfitters to get creative.
When it comes to customizing the PV5, commercial clients can enjoy some additional features. This model includes a 7-inch instrument cluster and a 12.9-inch navigation screen equipped with Android Automotive, enabling fleet operators to integrate essential applications that track truck activities. By collaborating with Samsung through its IoT platform, SmartThings Pro, Kia aims to provide PVB customers with enhanced connectivity via their PV5 vehicles. These improvements would enable owners to manage and supervise compatible smart HVAC units, smart signage systems, household appliances, as well as various other intelligent workplace and residential gadgets. Additionally, Kia has launched AddGear, which offers customizable add-ons designed to improve usability within the vehicle. Available in several appealing exterior hues and crafted from sustainable materials, these accessories cater to environmentally conscious consumers looking to personalize their driving experience.
The mounting rails are designed to hold accessories.
The PV5 will feature a 161-horsepower engine delivering 184 lb-ft of torque, which receives its energy via one of three battery choices. For cargo versions of the PV5, customers have the option of equipping either a 43.3-kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, or selecting between two larger-capacity models—a 51.5-kWh or a 71.2-kWh lithium nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) unit. All other configurations allow for selection solely among these high-capacity NMC batteries. On the WLTP test cycle, this vehicle achieves an utmost driving distance of 248 miles; moreover, using an appropriate charging station, it can increase its state-of-charge (SOC) from 10% to 80% within half an hour.
Sales for the PV5 will commence in South Korea and Europe during late 2025, with additional markets opening up in 2026. However, the United States seems less likely to be among these markets due to the Chicken Tax, which enforces a 25% tariff on commercial vehicles manufactured outside of North America. This tax effectively prevents most non-North American produced commercial trucks such as the Korean-assembled PV5 from entering the U.S. market.
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, stating that they will consider various options as they arise. It's clear that Kia's initiative towards electric vehicles isn't slowing down. Upcoming releases include the PV7 and PV9. Additionally, beginning their lineup with model "5" suggests potential for future introduction of more compact variants.
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