Kia has officially launched its fully electric, multi-purpose van, the PV5. It is the first vehicle under Kia’s new Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) strategy and will utilize the new E-GMP.S architecture, which greatly emphasizes versatility and modular capability.
Mainly offered in passenger, commercial, and high-roof styles, the PV5 can be further configured in up to 16 distinct layouts to serve the exact needs of its buyer. However, all PV5s are built around a low-floor chassis to make the ingress and egress of passengers and cargo as easy as possible. The PV5 is also distinguishable through its wide windscreen and low beltline, which should greatly improve visibility for the driver.
Power-wise, the PV5 can be had with either 71.2kWh or 51.5kWh batteries, but the Cargo version has an additional 43.3kwh option. All battery sizes are mated to a single motor that produces 163hp and 250Nm of torque. Performance is generally the same across the board, with an advertised 412km driving range.
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Production of the PV5 has kicked off at Kia’s plant in Hwaseong EVO Plant in South Korea, and it is expected to enter the European market later this year. There is still no word on whether this particular model will launch in the ASEAN region or in the Philippines, but its relatively compact size and potential as a fleet vehicle make it a promising contender in the local MPV segment.
Kia has also developed a specific infotainment software for all PBV-era vehicles to help with conversion builds, fleet management, and driving safety. The software is based on Android Automotive OS, which will allow other developers and companies to integrate their apps into the PV5.
And this is all just the beginning. The Korean carmaker already announced its plans to roll out the larger PV7 in 2027 and the even bigger PV9 in 2029. Overall, Kia aims to sell 250,000 PBV units by 2030.
More photos of the 2026 Kia PV5:
