Kia recently unveiled the exterior design of the PV5, its first electric van under the “Platform Before Vehicle” (PBV) brand, signaling a bold step toward versatile, zero-emission transportation. As Kia’s entry into a rapidly evolving electric van market, the PV5 sets itself apart with a modular, customizable design that caters to both passenger and cargo needs. From ridesharing to delivery services, the PV5 is built to compete with other electric van heavyweights like the Volkswagen ID Buzz and Ford E-Transit. With a clean, futuristic aesthetic, the PV5 nods toward utility while offering a glimpse of what modern mobility could look like.
What truly makes the PV5 stand out is its innovative architecture. At its core lies a flexible platform with interchangeable body types, allowing users to transform the vehicle from a passenger van to a dedicated cargo carrier—or even specialized configurations for niche industries. A fixed driver cab anchors the design, while the rear of the van adapts to serve diverse needs. This modular approach makes the PV5 attractive not only to businesses but also to individuals intrigued by the new wave of #vanlife conversions. Kia has already signed agreements with companies like Uber, who plan to integrate the PV5 into their fleet as part of a larger transition to all-electric operations by 2040.
While details on powertrain specifications, range, and pricing remain under wraps, Kia hinted at revealing more during its upcoming EV Day event in Spain. The PV5 is expected to be the first of many PBV-branded vehicles to follow this flexible design philosophy, potentially redefining the landscape for electric vans. With its combination of utility and futuristic adaptability, the Kia PV5 is poised to become a major player in the next generation of EVs, signaling Kia’s clear intent to lead in innovation and sustainable transportation solutions.
📷: KIA
