Kia has unveiled its first all-electric van, the PV5, positioning it as a direct competitor to the Volkswagen ID.Buzz. The South Korean automaker is expanding its electric vehicle lineup, targeting a broader consumer base with the introduction of its PV5 range, which includes both van and minibus configurations.
Built on the same platform as the entry-level EV3 hatchback, the PV5 is expected to be competitively priced. In mainland Europe, the van is slated to sell for €30,000 (£25,000), making it more affordable than many diesel models currently available. The PV5 boasts a futuristic design, featuring distinctive styling cues such as thin, sculpted LED headlights that extend from the bumpers to the A-pillars and a near-flat window design. Many models also incorporate dual-tone paint schemes, with the lower sections of the bodywork incorporating protective grey plastic elements.
Kia will offer three initial variants of the PV5: the two-seater ‘Cargo’ van, the ‘Chassis Cab’ pickup, and the five-seater ‘Passenger’ model. According to Kia, there are also plans to develop a campervan version.
Despite its relatively compact size, the PV5 Cargo offers a 5.1 cubic meter load volume. It is fitted with twin side-opening doors and a unique rail system, which should make the loading of bulky items easier. Buyers will be able to choose from three battery options, ranging from 43.3 to 71.2kWh. Higher-end variants boast a range of 249 miles. This is approximately 30 miles less than the top-spec Volkswagen ID.Buzz.
Speaking with the motoring publication Auto Express, Pierra Martin-Bos, PBV Director for Kia Europe, hinted at the company’s interest in expanding the van’s range with a campervan model. Martin-Bos stated, “Obviously there is also a big market of campervans that have been built by [other brands] so therefore we want to consider these partnerships. It’s important that we provide for this.” He further added, “It’s also clear that when we speak about the bigger offerings today, they are very diesel-oriented, but we will change it, like everything else.”
