Kia PV5 Chassis-Cab Van Spotted: Potential for In-House Conversions
The Kia PV5 electric van has been caught testing in chassis-cab format, suggesting the potential for a variety of different versions, including those with in-house conversions. The upcoming PV5 panel van has already been revealed and is expected to be just the beginning of Kia’s foray into the electric commercial vehicle market.
Kia has indicated that the PV5 will offer buyers the opportunity to create diverse conversions. This is common practice within the commercial vehicle sector. Our spy photographers have captured images of what appears to be a tipper version, featuring an open-top rear loading bay, which transforms the van into something similar to a single-cab pickup truck.
These new spyshots, taken in the Arctic Circle, show the Kia’s front end under heavy camouflage, but with the large windows and smart upper half still visible. The lower body is designed to be more durable, with features like black plastic cladding around the wheel arches and a bumper made of individual, replaceable parts to reduce repair costs.
The chassis cab also has a rack to protect the window from any large items that might move around in the rear. The rear lights appear different from the vertical style found on the new van; instead, they are positioned low down beneath the tipper. They still feature the high-tech, slimline design achieved through LED technology.
Conversions are Key to Success
Kia’s success in the commercial vehicle market will depend on the range of conversions available. A significant percentage of vans are modified in some way before they reach buyers. This could range from simple shelving or racking in a panel van to more complex modifications like refrigeration units or illuminated billboards.
Many of these conversions are carried out by third-party specialists who receive a chassis cab from the manufacturer with just the front section and a bare rear end. However, many manufacturers are now offering their own in-house conversions.
Tipper vans, which utilize a loading bed that can be raised by hydraulic struts, have become a very popular option. Dropside vans, which typically feature a fixed bed with a side panel that can be folded down for access to the load, are another frequently sought-after option.
These spyshots suggest that Kia is considering offering its own range of in-house conversions. This has several advantages. It allows customers to get their vehicles faster with the assurance of being covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. Kia has already confirmed that its vans will come with the same seven-year, 100,000-mile warranty as its passenger cars, making it one of the best warranties in the van market.
The Kia PV5 is scheduled to make its UK debut at the CV Show in April 2025 before going on sale toward the end of the year.
