KIA PV5: this is what the first model of the KIA PV8 range will look like

During the past CES 2024, KIA showed its future electrification plans and focused on the presentation of its PBV range, several commercial vehicles created to offer sustainable transport solutions in different situations. This range will initially be offered with three models: PV1, PV5 and PV7. Three sizes to offer three different solutions for three distinct ways of getting around.

The name PBV stands for Platform Beyond Vehicles, and the aim is to offer light commercial vehicles that provide sustainable solutions to the needs of professionals. KIA plans to launch 14 electric vehicles before 2030, and these three are intended to be the foundation on which some of them will be built.

The first model in this range to go into production is the KIA PV5. It is a medium-sized electric van that will begin production during 2025. This first model will be followed by the PV1, a smaller vehicle designed as a compact cargo vehicle for the city, specifically built to move through the narrow streets of urban areas.

The third model to enter production will be the PV7, intended to offer electric mobility solutions for those who need to carry heavier and bulkier loads.

What we know about the PV5

This first electric model in KIA’s new range is already under development, and test units have been spotted in various locations. All of them, conveniently camouflaged, of course. For now, and based on the concept models, we can expect geometric lines and many flat surfaces.

At the front we will find daytime running lights arranged in a cascade on both sides of the vehicle, with the main headlights placed lower down in a more conventional manner, framing the rectangular grille. The design is simple and will help unify the physical appearance of all the models the brand offers within this range.

The rear appears set to be more traditional, although it will not abandon its modern and attractive styling, matching the rest of the proposed models. The PV5 will have several versions, both for passengers and for cargo transport. The height of the variants designed for passenger and goods transport will be 1,900 mm, although there will be a high-roof version with a height of 2,200 millimetres.

The flexible architecture e-CCPM, Electric Complete Chassis Platform Module, will offer interchangeable configurations so that it can serve as a taxi, camper van, or even have a fixed cabin added on top of the chassis.

Technological interior

The passenger version is expected to offer very comfortable seats and highly effective connectivity. The infotainment system will be enhanced by the use of Artificial Intelligence, and both steering and braking will be wire-based, which will improve its functionality.

Motors and batteries

Nothing has been announced about the battery and the electric powertrain. It is expected to use the latest technology the brand currently offers, but no information is available yet. The KIA PV5 will offer V2L and V2G charging, enabling bidirectional charging.

This model and the rest of the range may benefit from elements already available in other KIA models, so KIA’s experience will be leveraged to deliver the best solutions.

The KIA PV5 will in principle be manufactured at the Korean plant in Hwaseong, although it may be partly moved to the brand’s plant in Mexico to support its rollout across North America, a market from which they expect good results.

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