Kia teases electric PV5 van duo

FRESH from its showing of the EV4 comes Kia’s new all-electric PV5 van range – in both Passenger and Cargo forms.

A likely rival to the Volkswagen ID.Buzz twins, and possibly the Zeekr 009 MPV, the Kia PV5 Passenger and Cargo models were teased ahead of the 2025 Kia EV Day which will be held later this month in Tarragona, Spain.

Previewed by the Concept PV5 at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in 2024, the mid-sized PV5 is the first model to make its debut under Kia’s new Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) global business strategy.

Kia says the duo is designed to “redefine the concepts of space and mobility”, and that the PV5 will “leverage its world-leading EV technology” to “fulfil the diverse needs of a broad customer base”.

In meeting that brief, the PV5 will be offered in several configurations, the Passenger and Cargo twins shown here to be joined by further additions to the range, including specialised conversions options, in the very near future.

Kia Global Design head Karim Habib says the PV5’s contemporary design “transcends traditional light commercial vehicles, featuring a fresh aesthetic that emphasises flexibility and customisation through a modular approach”.

“While the PV5 is offered in three different body styles to provide innovative solutions for a diverse range of customer needs, they all embody the same consistent design values inspired by Kia’s design philosophy, ‘Opposites United,’” he said.

“Each model confidently expresses a solid, bold, futuristic character and a highly capable attitude.”

Mr Habib said the PV5 Passenger’s “refined geometric profile” accentuates its contemporary look and delivers excellent outward visibility thanks to the large window area, made possible by a low beltline.

The model’s window area is framed by “striking black graphic” window frames that contrast with the PV5’s body colour.

Robust black geometric wheel arch claddings and rocker panels give “continuity with Kia’s SUV line-up” and “suggest an off-road character”, though not with any off-road prowess…

The front of the PV5 Passenger offers a bold signature lighting and sleek black accents on the main headlight units elevate the PV5’s “modern appeal”, while the parting line in profile enhances the “geometric silhouette” and contributes to a “tough aesthetic”, Kia says.

At the rear, the PV5 Passenger continues to show a “robust, modern character” and projects a “functional, logical nature”. The chamfered D-pillar line extends to the top-hinged tailgate, itself set above a “strong bumper” to “amplify a horizontal stance”.

For the PV5, which shares the same geometric design as the PV5 Passenger, we find a boxier profile, clean, modern aesthetics, barn-style rear doors, and a “spacious and more open interior feel”.

Kia will host its 2025 Kia EV Day in Tarragona, Spain towards the end of the month where it is expected to announce strategic plans for its PBV business.

Further details are expected to be made available from February 27.