When Kia revealed its PV5, there was no mistaking its ambition. Previewed at CES 2024 and debuting in full at EV Day 2025, the PV5 makes it clear that Kia now has electric vans in its sights, and it is not coming quietly. With roots in the company’s Purpose-Built Vehicle (PBV) concept, the PV5 is more than simply another electric van. It stands as a reflection of where the future of both commercial and family transport could lead, and why so many are already placing it on their shortlist.
Bringing Modular Thinking to Mobility
The PV5’s existence hinges on Kia’s belief that modularity is the next big step in motoring utility. Rather than simply slapping an electric drivetrain into an existing van shell, Kia started with a new philosophy: one flexible platform capable of underpinning multiple vehicle types, thanks to the E-GMP.S architecture. This platform, a development from Hyundai-Kia’s widely acclaimed Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), has now been tuned specifically for vans, both for transporting people and payloads.
The PBV (Purpose-Built Vehicle) concept at its heart is about breaking free from the limitations of traditional vehicle variants. Professional van, cargo carrier, passenger transporter, wheelchair-accessible shuttle, camper, or even crew van: the PV5 can be built out as all of these, allowing both fleet buyers and private users to select a template and fine-tune it to match their actual needs.
A Strategic Global Launch
Kia settled on a strategic global launch for the PV5: a sharp reveal at CES 2024, followed by a grander, fully-fledged unveiling in Spain for EV Day in February 2025. This roll-out sets the tone for widespread adoption. Early adopters in South Korea and Europe will have access to pre-orders starting mid-2025, with full-scale production beginning in July.
That initial European availability is no accident. Commercial vans have a particularly receptive market in Europe, especially amongst city-centre delivery firms and mobility services, which are being incentivised to switch to zero-tailpipe emissions vehicles under tightening regulations.
The Array of Versions and Modular Configurations
Kia’s lineup for the PV5 is striking for its breadth and focus on true modularity:
Cargo Van: Offered in Compact, Long, and High Roof variants, each engineered to maximise utility for logistics, utilities, and specialist conversions like refrigeration.
Passenger: Initially configured as a five-seater, with a seven-seat version under development.
Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV): Factory-engineered to compliance standards, with an easy low-floor entry.
Chassis Cab: Flexible base for coachbuilders and bespoke needs.
Open Bed: Targeting businesses needing a compact pickup-style vehicle.
Crew Van: Exclusive to Europe, meeting demand for small work groups.
Light Camper: Aimed squarely at the growing campervan segment, rivalling models like the VW ID. Buzz.
Every core model can be reconfigured with various kits or modules, enabling partners to address highly specialised needs without the expense (or waste) of one-off vehicles.
Technical Specifications and Features that Matter
The backbone of the PV5 is the tailored E-GMP.S platform—a full ‘skateboard’ chassis, with flat floor and a low centre of gravity.
Battery and Range
Battery Type
Capacity
Range (WLTP)
Market Availability
NCM
51.5 kWh
~149 miles
UK, Europe
NCM
71.2 kWh
~249 miles
UK, Europe, Korea
LFP (Cargo only)
43.3 kWh
~106 miles
Europe (specific to commercial use)
The 71.2 kWh version will prove most appealing for fleets needing longer daily runs, while local tradespeople may find the value proposition of the smaller packs more sensible.
Charging uses a 400-volt system, with DC rapid charging up to 150 kW. That’s enough to go from 10% to 80% in about half an hour, which is genuinely useful for delivery routes or family touring.
Performance and Dimensions
All variants are powered by a single 120 kW electric motor (about 160 bhp equivalent) in the long-range model, delivering instant torque. With a completely flat floor, loading and unloading cargo—or assisting passengers with reduced mobility—is far easier compared to traditional combustion rivals.
Cargo volume: 4.4m³ (enough for two Euro pallets)
Rear door loading height: just 419 mm
Interior width: 1,565 mm
Maximum cargo length: 2,255 mm
Driver Tech and Comfort
Kia has built in up-to-date features to support both owner-operators and major fleets. The cabin boasts a 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen running Android Automotive, a 7.5-inch digital cluster, and a digital key system for shared users. Over-the-air updates, built-in fleet telematics (thanks to Geotab), and an optional App Market make the PV5 ready for years of coming advances.
Seating is highly flexible: foldable, removable and slideable, depending on whether you’re carrying people or packages. The passenger model is particularly focused on accessibility, with a side step just 399 mm off the ground and advanced ADAS (driver assistance systems), including adaptive cruise, lane keep, and even potential for future autonomous features.
Pricing, Trims, and Simplicity
UK pricing is subtly pitched to undercut or out-value key rivals:
Essential (base) starts at £32,995—51.5 kWh battery yielding roughly 149 miles of real-world range; deliveries expected late 2025.
Plus (long-range) ups the spec to the 71.5 kWh battery and an impressive 249 miles, along with upgrades such as wireless charging, premium safety assists, improved wheels, heated electrically adjustable seats, and vehicle-to-load (V2L) export capability for power-hungry tools or camping setups.
Trim levels are deliberately simple, with most options linked to colour rather than tech or comfort features. The intention is to streamline ordering for fleets and private buyers alike.
Variants for Every Imagination
The sheer spread of PV5 versions puts it in rare company. Commercial buyers may gravitate towards the Cargo or Crew models for business, with upfront flexibility for refrigeration, parcel racks, or trades equipment. For leisure, the Light Camper model has already sparked comparisons with the VW ID. Buzz California concept, equipped with a pop-up roof and space for sleeping two adults in comfort.
The Open Bed and Chassis Cab reach out to small construction companies and local delivery businesses, while the WAV brings a genuinely fresh option for accessible transport, direct from the factory rather than costly aftermarket conversion.
Where the PV5 Sits Among Rivals
Direct competitors include the VW ID. Buzz (and future Buzz LWB/van variants), Ford E-Transit Custom, and the Stellantis group’s Pro One vans (Citroën ë-Dispatch, Peugeot e-Expert, Vauxhall Vivaro Electric). In this crowd, the PV5 stands out for a few critical reasons:
User-centred modularity: reconfiguration is quicker and cheaper.
Competitive range-per-price, especially at the 71.5 kWh level.
Dual commercial and private focus, not just fleet.
Fleets have already taken notice—Uber’s intent to use the PV5 as a core ride-hailing vehicle sends a clear signal to businesses searching for reliability, low running costs and environmental compliance in their next purchase.
For those in the market but not ready to wait for the full PV5 launch, or needing something immediately, check out used vans at OnlyVans UK for options that might complement or serve until PV5s begin hitting the road.
Looking Ahead
Kia’s shift from a traditional carmaker to a mobility solutions provider is on full display with the PV5 project. The blend of electric-first engineering, flexible build options, and the smart application of connected technologies positions the PV5 as both a worst-kept secret and a potentially disruptive force in the van market. Whether it’s for business, family, or finding new adventures, the PV5’s modular electric approach raises expectations for what future vans should look like.
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About Luke Polach
Luke Polach is a used vans enthusiast and the founder of Only Vans, a growing UK-based platform dedicated to helping buyers and sellers connect with the best used vans on the market. With a passion for commercial vehicles and years of industry insight, Luke shares practical advice and market knowledge to guide readers through every step of their van-buying journey.
