The Kia PV5 mid-sized van will undercut its nearest rivals by more than £10,000 when it arrives in the UK later this year.
Kia showcased its first-ever van at the brand’s EV Day event in Tarragona, Spain. The company confirmed that the VW ID.Buzz-rivaling electric vehicle will initially launch in Passenger and Cargo variants.
Several additional configurations will join the lineup later, including Chassis Cab, Crew Cab, Light Camper, Freezer Box, Drop Side, and a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle capable of supporting up to 300 kilograms of load.
Early versions of the van will go on sale in the second half of 2025. Kia has indicated a starting price of around £25,000-£30,000 for the Cargo model — significantly cheaper than competitors like the Ford E-Transit Custom (£45,000), VW ID.Buzz (£41,000) and Farizon SV (£45,000).
Both variants of the all-electric van will offer either a 51.5kWh or 71.2kWh battery and utilize Kia’s 400-volt electrical architecture. The front-mounted motor delivers 161bhp and 184lb ft of torque.
Kia states both PV5 versions will return 249 miles of range — less than the ID. Buzz. The company estimates rapid charging from 10-80% in 30 minutes.
An smaller, entry-level 43.3kWh version of the Cargo will also be available, though Kia has provided limited details.
The PV5 features the ‘Opposites United’ design language found on existing Kia EVs including the EV3, EV9 and upcoming EV2 and EV4. This includes chunky black cladding, a boxy appearance, and futuristic LED headlights.
The PV5 Passenger functions as an MPV and distinguishes itself from the Cargo model with a lift-up tailgate instead of split rear doors, plus additional windows. Press images show the Passenger offering a 2-3-0 seat configuration for five occupants, as well as an innovative 1-2-3 layout for six.
The PV5 Cargo provides up to 5.1m³ of space and comes in Standard, Long, and High Roof specifications. Standard and Long models feature a two-seat configuration with an optional third seat. Additional options include a sliding door and a ‘Walk Through’ spec for the High Roof version, plus an L-Track mounting system.
All PV5 models include a seven-inch digital driver’s display and a 12.9-inch infotainment screen running Android Automotive. Kia’s first van is built on the company’s modular GMP.S all-electric ‘skateboard’ platform, which accommodates various body styles through Kia’s ‘Flexible Body System’.
The PV5 also features Kia’s Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) system, allowing users to charge external electronic devices via a three-pin plug.
The Kia PV5 will make its UK debut at the Commercial Vehicle show in Birmingham, beginning April 29. While Kia executives have confirmed the PV5 Cargo will start around £25,000, Passenger versions are expected to command a significant premium.
