The Kia PV5 is an all-electric van available in various configurations, including crew van, box van, refrigerated truck, and even a camper variant. It is powered by a 161-horsepower motor and boasts a maximum range of 248 miles. While Kia has not completely dismissed the idea of launching a U.S. version, high import duties on commercial vehicles manufactured outside North America may complicate this process.

During Kia’s 2025 EV Day, the spotlight was not solely reserved for passenger vehicles; the production version of the PV5 was showcased, marking the beginning of what is anticipated to be a broad lineup of PBV (Platform Beyond Vehicle) trucks and vans.

Upon launch, the PV5 will offer three core body styles: Passenger, Cargo, and Chassis Cab. This innovative PBV design allows for personalization tailored to diverse customer needs, thanks to its modular structure based on the E-GMP.S platform, which is a modified version of the underpinnings found in Kia’s EV6 and EV9. This design comprises a battery-powered skateboard with adaptable space on top for different body types.

Photo by: Alex Goy / InsideEVs

Construction of the PV5, along with its future variations, will take place at a tailored facility. The manufacturing process employs a Flexible Body System that allows customers to customize their PV5s uniquely. Kia describes this approach as “akin to assembling a puzzle,” allowing for a wide array of fascinating combinations. Furthermore, Kia has collaborated with experts from the commercial vehicle sector to offer multiple configurations, including crew cabs, drop sides, large cargo boxes, and even freezer boxes, providing potential for use as a ‘light camper’, as showcased at SEMA.

The Passenger variant features a three-row seating configuration with a lift-up tailgate, accommodating up to eight individuals in a 2-3-3 layout, with the ability to fold seats for additional passenger comfort.

On the other hand, the PV5 Cargo will serve as the workhorse of the lineup, available in three configurations: Standard, Long, and High-Roof. The High-Roof version includes a Walk-Through option and standard roof console. With a maximum load capacity of 180 cubic feet and a rear lip height of 16.5 inches (419 mm), it can handle a substantial amount of cargo.

Photo by: Kia

The PV5 incorporates optional L-Track mounting systems for easy load retention and features a vehicle-to-load (V2L) electric supply in the cargo area to power equipment on the go. Additionally, the integration of advanced data collection allows fleet managers to execute predictive maintenance, monitor service schedules, and more, ensuring optimal operational efficiency without the need for physical software updates.

For those who need flexibility, the Chassis Cab variant provides a blank canvas with the cabin from the Cargo version, enabling businesses to customize it according to their specific requirements.

Photo by: Kia

More variants are on the horizon. The Crew will be Kia’s in-house conversion model with specifications previously attainable only through external modifiers. Additional models, including Drop Side, Box Van, and Freezer Box, are also in the pipeline. With more options expected, Kia is paving the way for exciting future configurations, including potential ‘vanlife’ styles.

Interestingly, the platform has also been designated for specialized vehicles. The Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) variant aims to enhance wheelchair accessibility, featuring a ramp with a remarkable lift capacity of 661 lbs, which is raised directly to the sidewalk—a notable improvement over standard conversions. Inside, a universal wheelchair fastening system ensures the safety of occupants in the second row, providing proximity to the front for wheelchair users, while companions can comfortably sit in the third row.

Photo by: Kia

Familiar features from Kia’s road cars can be found in the PV5’s interior. A combination of physical buttons, touch screens, and intuitive switchgear adorns the cabin, designed to allow for user customization to a greater extent than conventional road vehicles. Upfitters will find ample opportunities for modifications to best suit their needs.

Commercial customers can also look forward to some added functionality. The PV5 features a 7-inch instrument display alongside a 12.9-inch navigation screen that facilitates the installation of business-critical applications through Android Automotive. Thanks to a collaboration with Samsung and its IoT platform SmartThings Pro, Kia intends for PVB customers to enjoy an enhanced connected experience with their PV5s. This connectivity is designed to enable management of compatible smart HVAC systems, signage, appliances, and various other smart devices. To optimize the user experience, Kia has introduced AddGear, a customizable accessory range available in various colors and eco-friendly materials.

The mounting rails are designed to accommodate a variety of accessories.

The PV5 is equipped with a motor delivering 161 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, with three battery options available for buyers. The Cargo variants can be fitted with a 43.3 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery or a choice between 51.5 kWh and 71.2 kWh lithium nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) batteries. The rest of the lineup is limited to the higher capacity NMC options. The top range is 248 miles according to the WLTP cycle, and fast charging capabilities can boost the battery from 10% to 80% in just 30 minutes with the appropriate charger.

Sales for the PV5 are projected to commence in Korea and Europe by late 2025, with additional markets following in 2026. However, North America may not be among those markets due to the imposing Chicken Tax, which commands a 25% import duty on commercial vehicles manufactured outside the continent, making it difficult for international commercial models like the Korean-made PV5 to enter this lucrative market.

During the EV Day event, Kia’s President and CEO, Ho Sung Song, indicated that while immediate entry into the U.S. market is uncertain, the company is exploring potential routes to introduce a variant of the PV5 in the future. One fact remains abundantly clear: Kia’s momentum in the commercial EV sector is far from over. The PV7 and PV9 are also on their way, and with the “5” designation, there may be room for even smaller models to emerge soon.