Kia has opened domestic orders for its first electric van, the PV5, marking the start of its Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) business as the automaker expands its electric commercial offerings. The launch follows the model’s initial reveal at CES 2024, and comes ahead of a broader global rollout.
Built on Hyundai Motor Group’s new E-GMP.S EV architecture, the PV5 is designed for versatility, with the ability to adapt to various business and personal use cases. The first two available variants are Passenger and Cargo models, with further configurations such as refrigerated trucks, campers, and luxury versions expected in the coming months.
Powered by either a 51.5 kWh or 71.2 kWh battery, the PV5 Cargo offers driving ranges of up to 377 km (234 miles), while the Passenger model can achieve up to 358 km (222 miles). Both variants support 350 kW fast charging, enabling a 10% to 80% charge in approximately 30 minutes.
“With the PV5, we’re introducing a modular electric platform that can meet a variety of customer needs,” a Kia spokesperson said. “The vehicle’s design, flexibility, and next-generation software capabilities support a wide range of mobility solutions.”
The PV5 also debuts Hyundai’s “Pleos Fleet” vehicle control software, designed to reduce operational costs through integration of infotainment, vehicle systems, and cloud connectivity. The van includes a 12.9-inch navigation screen running an Android Auto-based interface with multi-app functionality and an embedded App Market.
Pricing in South Korea begins at 47.08 million won ($34,700) for the Passenger model before incentives. After subsidies, Kia estimates the cost could fall to between 30 and 35 million won ($25,000–$30,000). Cargo versions start at 42 million won ($31,000), with long-range variants priced at 44.7 million won ($33,000). Kia anticipates lower final costs depending on local incentives.
Kia began taking orders for the PV5 in the UK in May, starting at £32,995 ($44,000). The company plans to expand availability to other global markets in phases, supported by the broader adoption of the PBV strategy and Hyundai’s end-to-end operating system, set to appear in over 20 million vehicles by 2030.