Kia Corporation has made waves in the automotive industry with the unveiling of the Kia PV5, a mid-sized Car Derived Van (CDV) designed under its ambitious Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) strategy. Showcased at the 2025 Kia EV Day in Tarragona, Spain, the PV5 represents a redefinition of mobility, offering groundbreaking modular design, flexible configurations, and advanced technological features.
Key Features and Configurations
The Kia PV5 is built on the PBV-specific E-GMP.S platform, an innovation derived from Hyundai’s original E-GMP platform. This modular skateboard architecture allows for multiple body styles to sit on a flat base, creating remarkable adaptability. As a result, Kia has introduced three primary versions of the PV5: Passenger, Cargo, and Chassis Cab.
- Passenger Model
- Features a three-row seat configuration, offering flexibility for ride-hailing, family travel, or camping adventures.
- Designed with fold-and-dive seating and modular storage solutions to optimise luggage space.
- Compatible with businesses like Uber, ensuring it meets ride-hailing needs through strategic design.
- Cargo Model
- Offers up to 5.1 m³ in cargo space, accommodating two Euro pallets.
- Comes in three configurations: Standard, Long, and a High-Roof Walk-Through variant.
- Includes an optional L-track mounting system for greater cargo management and V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) functionality, which enhances work efficiency.
- Chassis Cab
- Optimised for customisation, supporting conversion configurations such as Drop Side, Freezer Box, and more.
- Includes a protective flat structure for battery safety and mounting brackets to ease modifications.
Powertrain and Battery Options
The PV5 features three battery options depending on the model:
- 43.3 kWh (LFP) battery option for Cargo models, suitable for short-range needs.
- 51.5 kWh and 71.2 kWh (NCM batteries) available for all versions.
Each model is powered by a 120 kW front motor delivering 250 Nm of torque, with a maximum range of 400 km and a fast-charging capability from 10% to 80% in just 30 minutes.
Advanced Manufacturing and Sustainability
Kia’s new EVO Plant, a specialised PBV manufacturing facility, incorporates flexible conveyor and cell-based systems. This ensures high-quality production with the capacity for customised conversion models. Eco-friendly materials such as thermoplastic olefin (TPO) are also used for interior components, offering durable, sustainable alternatives to PVC.
Technology and Connectivity
The PV5 introduces advanced digital features, including:
- A 7-inch instrument cluster and a 12.9-inch Android Automotive OS-based navigation system.
- Over-the-Air (OTA) updates for continuous software improvements.
- Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality for powering external devices.
These features, combined with Kia’s partnership with Samsung’s IoT platform, offer seamless integration into workspaces and fleet operations.
Innovations in Design and Modularity
Inspired by Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, the PV5 blends sleek aesthetics with a robust, utilitarian lower section. Modular interior and exterior design enable a high degree of personalisation. Customers can further tailor their vehicles with Kia AddGear, a system for adding or modifying accessories after purchase.
Meanwhile, Kia collaborates with global conversion companies to provide variations such as the Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV), implementing features like a side-entry ramp and universal wheelchair fastening systems.
Launch and Market Availability
The Kia PV5 will begin sales in Korea and Europe in the second half of 2025, with other markets to follow sequentially in 2026. Conversion models for specialised use cases will launch between 2025 and 2026, allowing Kia to address diverse mobility needs globally.
With its innovative modular platform, advanced functionality, and commitment to sustainability, the Kia PV5 stands out as a versatile and forward-thinking solution for personal and business transportation. Whether for urban commuting, business operations, or leisure travel, the PV5 sets a new benchmark in mobility.
