Kia’s Fully-Electric PV5 Sees Range Improvements
Kia’s PV5 electric vehicle has demonstrated an increased WLTP range following ongoing testing. The PV5, Kia’s first commercial vehicle, is designed with modularity in mind and will be available in multiple configurations including panel van (Cargo), chassis cab, and passenger carrier.
Range Updates for Various Models
The updates have resulted in the PV5 Cargo L2/H1 variants offering up to 184 miles on Standard Range models (up from 181 miles) and 258 miles on Long Range models (up from 247 miles). The five-seat PV5 Passenger has also seen a range increase, rising from 179 to 183 miles on Standard Range models, and from 249 to 256 miles on Long Range variants.
Technical Specifications
The Standard Range models are equipped with a 51.4kWh battery, while Long Range variants feature a 71.2kWh battery. All PV5 models support 400V fast charging, allowing the battery to be charged from 10% to 80% in under 30 minutes when connected to a 150kW charging point. A single motor powers the front wheels, producing 163PS and 250Nm of torque.
Pricing and Availability
Pricing for the PV5 starts at £27,695 (ex VAT) for the PV5 Cargo Essential Standard Range, increasing to £30,145 for the Long Range version. The vehicle is eligible for the £5,000 plug-in van grant, reducing the starting price to £22,695 (ex VAT). The Passenger version is available from £32,995 (OTR).
Features and Configurations
The PV5 features Kia’s new Flexible Body System, enabling modular assembly of body components. This allows for various models including Passenger, Cargo, Chassis-Cab, WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle), and Family, as well as conversion models like Crew, Drop Side, Box Van, Freezer Box, Prime, and Light Camper. The interior is designed to be modular, allowing for bespoke customization with a range of accessories available for enhanced storage and usability.
Trim Levels and Equipment
Two trim levels are offered: Essential and Plus. The Essential trim includes features such as LED headlights, air conditioning, keyless entry, adaptive cruise control with Highway Assist, front and rear parking sensors, reversing camera, and an alarm. The Plus trim adds heated front seats and steering wheel, blind spot monitor, electric folding door mirrors, wireless phone charging, and the option for a heat pump.
Variants and Future Plans
Other variants, including the L1H1 and L2/H2, will be available from 2026, offering different cargo capacities. The PV5 Crew and Chassis Cab variants are also available with different payload capacities and range options.
Kia UK president and CEO Paul Philpott stated that the PV5 represents “a serious opportunity for us” as the first of a three-model lineup launching over the next four years. “Now is the right time to enter the market with vans that are born electric because of the growth we are starting to see,” he added.
