Kia has uncovered the exterior design of its PV5 electric van in Passenger and Cargo variants ahead of their official debut at the Kia EV Day next month.
It’s the first time that either version of the Korean brand’s first dedicated electric van has been displayed production-ready.
Previewed by the Concept PV5 at the 2024 CES event, the PV5 is the first van to debut under Kia’s new “and disruptive” Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) electric van business; known as ‘Professional Business Vans’ in the UK.
Designed to “redefine the concepts of space and mobility”, the PV5 will leverage Kia’s EV technology and “fulfil the diverse needs of a broad customer base by providing unprecedented flexibility and customisation through innovative modularity”.
Kia will offer the PV5 in several configurations, including the base models: the ‘Passenger Van’ people mover designed for passenger convenience, and the ‘Cargo Van’ panel van optimised for freight transport. Additional derivative models and converted variants using the chassis cab version will be revealed at the 2025 Kia EV Day on 27 February.
According to Kia, its Volkswagen ID. Buzz and Buzz Cargo rival features a contemporary design that “transcends traditional light commercial vehicles, featuring a fresh aesthetic that emphasises flexibility and customisation through a modular approach”.
Karim Habib, head of Kia Global Design, commented: “While the PV5 is offered in three different body styles to provide innovative solutions for a diverse range of customer needs, they all embody the same consistent design values inspired by Kia’s design philosophy, Opposites United. Each model confidently expresses a solid, bold, futuristic character and a highly capable attitude.”
Both the PV5 Passenger Van and PV5 Cargo Van models offer a similar appearance, inspired by Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ philosophy. Highlights include signature lighting integrated with the vehicle’s A-pillar, black geometric wheel arch claddings and rocker panels for an “almost off-road-like appearance” and a clean profile that “demonstrates how Kia’s PBV technology redefines space and mobility”.
The lower bumper features a robust design using interchangeable corners, with both aesthetic and practical functions.
The PV5 also features a single lift-up tailgate door, set above a sturdy bumper that uses the same protective corners as at the front.
The PV5 Cargo shares the same geometric design as the PV5 Passenger, but employs a boxier profile that “reflects its enhanced space efficiency”. It also gains twin side-opening tailgate doors, which provide optimal practicality and easy access for loading and unloading.
More details on PV5 derivatives, conversions and product offerings, along with the brand’s strategic plans for the PBV business, will be announced at the upcoming 2025 Kia EV Day on 27 February in Tarragona, Spain. The event will also include the unveiling of the EV4 saloon and the Concept EV2.
