Kia is expanding its electric vehicle (EV) offerings with a new line of vans, including the PV5, a move that signals the South Korean automaker’s aggressive push into the commercial vehicle sector.
The PV5 is the first in a series of light-duty commercial vans and trucks built on the new modular Electric Global Modular Platform for Service, or E-GMP. Derived from Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP EV architecture, the platform offers standardized batteries, motors, and modular body panels, simplifying development and reducing costs. Ho-Sung Song, CEO of Kia Motors, emphasized the company’s dedication to electrification at the 2025 Kia EV Day held near Barcelona, Spain. Kia aims to increase its EV production by one million units.
The standard variants of the PV5 will include Passenger, Cargo, Chassis-Cab, and WAV (Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicle) models. The modular design allows for additional configurations, such as Crew, Drop-Side, Box Van, Freezer Box, and Light Camper versions.
The company is planning to manufacture the 184.6-inch-long PV5 for European and Asian markets. However, the potential for a North American release remains uncertain, as light trucks imported into the United States face a 25% tariff. Existing competition from domestic automakers further complicates the decision.
The PV5 will be powered by a 161-horsepower (120 kW) front motor producing 184 pound-feet (250 Nm) of torque. It offers battery options including a 51.5-kWh or 71.2-kWh NCM battery, or a 43.3-kWh LFP battery for the PV5 Cargo models. Kia estimates a 249-mile WLTP range and a recharge time from 10% to 80% in under 30 minutes using a DC fast charger.
Kia will first offer the three-row PV5 Passenger van, adaptable for luggage or camping, designed with features like a lift-up tailgate and folding seats for ride-sharing flexibility. The PV5 Cargo will come with a high roof option that offers 180 cubic feet (5.1 meters) of space, as well as a standard version. A chassis cab version will also hit the market allowing for various truck configurations.
The most innovative variant is the PV5 WAV (Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicle), designed with safety and accessibility in mind.
Kia’s Vice-President of Interior Design, Jochen Paesen, explained the team’s focus on mobility for all individuals. This led to the development of a factory-built vehicle specifically designed for wheelchair users, providing a much-needed alternative to costly aftermarket adaptations.
The PV5 WAV incorporates solutions such as a sidewalk-side entry ramp for safety and a repositioned second row for wheelchair accommodation, with seatbelts and harnesses adapted for wheelchair users. The wheelchair entry can support up to 661 pounds. This innovative design element may prove to be the deciding factor on whether the PV5 family will become a major success in the United States offering a unique space in the current marketplace.
