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Kia's PV5: The Futuristic, Modular Electric Van for Tomorrow

Kia mentions that box trucks, refrigerated models, wheelchair-accessible variants, and even campervan editions of the van are forthcoming.

  • The Kia PV5 is a fully electric, modular electric van available in various configurations including crew vans, cargo 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 just on passenger vehicles but also included smaller commercial options. They unveiled the production model of the PV5, which marks the beginning of an extensive range of PBV (Platform-Based Vehicles) trucks and vans that they plan to introduce.

At launch, the PV5 will feature 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 PVBs will utilize an adapted version of the E-GMP.S platform, which modifies the architecture found in similar models. Kia's EV6 , EV9 , et al. In this case, it’s a rechargeable skateboard equipped with space atop for various deck 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 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 recreational vehicle. As showcased at Sema .

How do the various PV5 models differ visually? The passenger variant features a three-row seat setup along with a lift-up rear door. It can accommodate up to eight individuals arranged in a 2-3-3 configuration; however, you can also 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 a rear sill height of 16.5 inches (419 millimeters), this model allows for an impressive quantity of items to fit inside.

Photo by: Kia

The optional L-track mounting system ensures that loading items securely becomes straightforward. Additionally, a vehicle-to-load (V2L) electrical outlet in the cargo space provides power whenever needed during transit. Furthermore, Kia has integrated various data tracking features for fleet management purposes, enabling proactive maintenance checks, monitoring of servicing intervals, and much more. Importantly, these updates can be performed remotely via wireless technology, eliminating the necessity for halting operations just to update software manually through a USB drive.

For those looking for a PV5 with expandable space, the Chassis Cab model is the way to go. This version features the same cab as the Cargo model but lacks anything attached at the rear. Instead, you have the freedom to add whatever you need behind the cabin to create a customized solution tailored specifically for your business needs.

Photo by: Kia

The Crew Van version.

Additional variations are on their way. The Crew represents Kia’s proprietary internal modification model, offering performance levels once 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 follow suit; thus, an electric #Vanlyfe rig might not be far off within the next few years.


However, there is already another specialized vehicle available on the platform. The Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV), designated as a PV5, has a particular aim: ensuring easy access for wheelchairs. Unlike typical cumbersome modifications found elsewhere, this model was conceived specifically with wheelchair users in focus right from the start. This WAV boasts a ramp capable of supporting up to 661 lbs, which extends smoothly onto the sidewalk—a feature seldom seen among rival vehicles.
Inside, you'll find a versatile wheelchair restraint system positioned strategically behind the first row of seating so passengers remain securely seated near the front. Meanwhile, friends and family members have space to comfortably sit in the rear section.

Photo by: Kia

The WAV

If you've driven a Kia passenger car before, you'll notice many similarities inside the PV5 series. The cabin features physical buttons, touchscreens, and conventional controls. 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 for commercial purposes, there are additional features designed specifically for fleet owners. Included is a 7-inch digital instrument cluster alongside a larger 12.9-inch navigation touchscreen. These displays support installing essential business applications via Android Automotive, enabling real-time monitoring of truck activities within the fleet.
Kia has teamed up with Samsung leveraging its SmartThings Pro IoT platform. This collaboration aims to provide PVB customers with enhanced connectivity through their PV5 vehicles. With this setup, drivers can manage and oversee various smart technologies such as HVAC systems, signage solutions, household gadgets, and numerous other intelligent office and domestic devices directly from their vehicle interface.
To improve overall usability, Kia also launched AddGear—a customizable array of add-ons intended to personalize interior spaces according to individual preferences. These accessories come in several attractive color options and incorporate sustainable, environmentally friendly components.

Photo by: Kia

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 its energy from 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) pack. Other models within the lineup are limited to choosing between the larger-capacity NMC units exclusively. When measured using the WLTP test cycle, this vehicle achieves an utmost driving distance of approximately 248 miles. Additionally, when utilizing the appropriate fast-charging station, the car can increase its state-of-charge from 10% to 80% in just half an hour.

Sales for the PV5 will commence in South Korea and Europe during late 2025, with additional markets following suit in 2026. However, the United States seems unlikely to join this list due to theChicken Tax, which levies a substantial 25% tariff on commercially manufactured vehicles not produced within North America. This regulation effectively prevents most imported commercial trucks such as the one made in Korea—the PV5—from entering the American market.

At EV Day, Kia’s President and CEO Ho Sung Song addressed the possibility of introducing some form of PV5 into the market over time, emphasizing their focus on exploring available opportunities. It’s clear that Kia isn’t halting its electric vehicle initiatives anytime soon. Up next are thePV7 and PV9 launches. Additionally, considering that Kia began this series with model "5," there seems to be significant potential for additional compact variants down the line.

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