Kia has unveiled the exterior design of its upcoming PV5 electric van, the first vehicle to come out under its “Platform Before Vehicle” (PBV) brand. This new EV is designed to serve as a versatile ‘people mover,’ with configurations for both passengers and cargo.
With the PV5, Kia is aiming to compete with established players in the electric van market, including the Volkswagen ID Buzz, Ford E-Transit, Mercedes eSprinter, and Ram ProMaster EV. Although electric vans are currently a niche market, the entrance of these new models suggests significant growth.
The PV5 will be available in several configurations, catering to a range of needs: cargo delivery, ridesharing services, and personal use, including options for #vanlife enthusiasts. Specialized conversion models will also be offered, appealing to the aftermarket conversion industry.
While the passenger version will feature a spacious window area, the cargo variant focuses on space efficiency with what Kia describes as a clean, modern look. However, Kia has yet to release detailed information regarding the powertrain, range, price, or availability of the PV5.
The PV5 is the first of many PBV-branded vehicles planned by Kia. The PBV concept, introduced at CES 2024 in Las Vegas, centers on a flexible vehicle architecture with swappable body types. This modular design allows the vehicle to transform from a minivan to a full-size van or even a small truck, depending on the user’s needs. The driver’s cab remains fixed, while the rest of the vehicle is interchangeable.
At the time of its unveiling, Kia positioned the PV5 as an ideal solution for ride-hailing, delivery services, and utilities. Shortly after the announcement, Uber signed a memorandum of understanding to potentially incorporate the PV5 for its drivers, in line with its goal to become fully electric in all markets by 2040.
Kia has stated it will reveal more details about the PV5 and a new model at its Kia EV Day in Spain later this month. An early model of the PV5 was also spotted in the US earlier this month, according to Electrek.
