Kia announced its first commercial electric van, the PV5, will debut at the UK Commercial Vehicle Show this April.
The Korean automaker’s entry into the commercial vehicle market positions the PV5 to compete with the Ford E-Transit Custom and VW ID Buzz Cargo.
Technical specifications for the PV5, first unveiled at CES 2024, include fast-charging capabilities from 10-80% in 30 minutes using 150kW charging stations. This suggests a battery capacity near 65kWh. The van features 22kW AC charging for depot use and vehicle-to-load functionality.
Kia will offer three PV5 variants:
- Panel van
- Chassis cab
- Passenger version for taxi and ride-hailing services
All models include a seven-year/100,000-mile warranty and Geotab fleet management integration.
“Our first electric van, the PV5, arrives at an important time for the UK, amid an unprecedented transition towards electric power across both the car and van markets,” said Paul Philpott, Kia UK president and CEO.
Philpott emphasized a measured approach to market entry: “Our strategy is to approach the market confidently but responsibly, launching in a phased and progressive manner to ensure each element of our commercial vehicle business is exacted with the same industry-leading standards we’re known for in the passenger car industry.”
The PV5 launches Kia’s broader PVB commercial vehicle initiative, which will expand to include PV3 and PV7 models. The PVB designation carries multiple meanings within Kia, including Purpose Built Vehicle, Platform Beyond Vehicle, and in the UK market, Professional Business Vans.
Full technical specifications and pricing will be announced at the Commercial Vehicle Show in April.
