Kia UK is preparing to launch its new electric van business at the 2025 Commercial Vehicle (CV) Show this coming April. The company plans to showcase its first fully electric van, the PV5, during the show, with detailed specifications and customer-focused information to be announced.
The PV5, which debuted at the 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), represents Kia’s foray into the commercial vehicle sector, a business it is calling PBV, or ‘Purpose Built Vehicle’ and ‘Platform Beyond Vehicle’.
The PV5 is designed to set a new standard for electric vans. Built on a dedicated EV platform, it is intended for various commercial uses, including delivery services, utilities, and ride-hailing. It will be available in three primary configurations: a panel van, a chassis cab, and a passenger variant. The chassis cab version is particularly notable in the mid-size van market for providing adaptability and customization potential.
Every Kia PBV will come with a seven-year/100,000-mile warranty. Kia is also partnering with Geotab, integrating technology such as native access to the Android App store on the van’s central display, to let fleets get the latest software solutions.
Mike Costain, Event Director for the Commercial Vehicle Show, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are absolutely delighted that Kia has chosen The Commercial Vehicle Show to debut their highly anticipated electric van. This event remains the premier platform for manufacturers to showcase cutting-edge innovations, and Kia’s presence highlights the growing momentum of electrification in the commercial vehicle sector. We look forward to seeing how their new launch is received by the industry and how it contributes to the future of sustainable transport.”
Paul Philpott, President and CEO of Kia UK, added, “This is an incredibly exciting time for Kia, as we build an entirely new commercial business to deliver world-class electric vans to UK customers.”
“Our first electric van, the PV5, arrives at an important time for the UK, amid an unprecedented transition towards electric power across both the car and van markets. Our strategy is to approach the market confidently but responsibly, launching in a phased and progressive manner to ensure each element of our commercial vehicle business is exacted with the same industry-leading standards we’re known for in the passenger car industry. This will cover dealer sales excellence, customer care, service and experience.”
“Together with our industry-leading seven-year warranty that will apply to all our vans, we are confident that our new LCV range will help businesses across the country achieve their carbon reduction goals while importantly never compromising logistical requirements.”
