Korean passenger car maker Kia is expanding into the commercial vehicle market with the PV5. This fully electric mid-size van will compete with established models such as the Ford Transit and Volkswagen Transporter. The PV5 has a striking appearance that remains true to the original design concepts previously shown.
Built on a new electric platform, it’s the first in what could be a range of commercial vehicles that will be loaded with tech and styled with futuristic design. Kia describes this new family of models as PBV (Platform Beyond Vehicle), and they will come in a range of different sizes, such as cargo vans for use as delivery vehicles and passenger variants that could function as taxis or shuttles. At the 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Kia showcased an array of design concepts in varying sizes, called the PV1, PV5 and PV7. The PV5 is now the first to be heading for series production as a cargo van and passenger vehicle.
Kia PV5 design
Although the passenger version and cargo van will share the same mechanical underpinnings, they each get unique styling, unlike what we typically see with LCVs. Easily recognisable by the distinctive LED daytime running light signature familiar to the latest crop of Kia passenger cars, the main headlights are discreetly integrated into the front bumper. The charge port is also located at the centre of the PV5’s front.
The PV5 passenger model features a large glasshouse and sliding doors on both sides, which could be electrically operated. At the rear is a lift-up tailgate with a low load level. We expect it to have three rows of seating, but Kia may offer more premium versions with fewer seats inside to appeal to the upper end of the corporate market.
When it comes to moving goods, the Kia PV5 Cargo will be available in one length but with two roof heights. Unlike the tailgate on the PV5 passenger van, the PV5 Cargo will be equipped with twin side-opening rear doors to provide maximum practicality.
The PV5 is also being developed as a chassis cab for customers to customise further. Kia plans to roll out a version called the PV5-R to deploy its autonomous driving technology. This driverless version could be put to work in cities and urban centres where such autonomous vehicles are permitted to operate as taxis.
Speaking at the reveal of the PV5, Karim Habib, Head of Kia Global Design, said: “While the PV5 is offered in three different body styles to provide innovative solutions for a diverse range of customer needs, they all embody the same consistent design values inspired by Kia’s design philosophy, ‘Opposites United’. Each model confidently expresses a solid, bold, futuristic character and a highly capable attitude.”
Kia PV5 tech details
Details on the performance and technical specifications of the Kia PV5 won’t be announced until the company’s upcoming ‘Kia EV Day’ which is being held in Tarragona, Spain, later this month.
How big is the Kia PV5?
Kia PV5 passenger Length: 4,645mm Width: 1,900mm Height: 1,900mm Wheelbase: 2,995mm
Kia PV5 Cargo Length: 4,645mm Width: 1,900mm Height: 1,900mm Wheelbase: 2,995mm
Kia PV5 High Roof Length: 4,645mm Width: 1,900mm Height: 2,200mm Wheelbase: 2,995mm
Kia PV5 Chassis Cab Length: 4,645mm Width: 1,900mm Height: 1,900mm Wheelbase: 2,995mm