The PV5 is a battery electric van built on Kia’s new PBV (Platform Beyond Vehicle) strategy.
It uses the E-GMP.S platform (a service-oriented variant of Kia/Hyundai’s modular EV architecture), allowing different body styles to be mounted on a flat, modular base.
It is offered in multiple variants: Passenger, Cargo, and WAV (wheelchair-accessible vehicle).
The Cargo version boasts a low rear loading height (419 mm) and a flat floor layout, which is helpful for loading heavy or awkward cargo.
Its “Flexible Body System” supports many conversions and body structures—Kia says up to 16 variants.
It aims for a driving range of up to ~416 km and supports fast charging (to go from 10 % to 80 %) in about 30 minutes.
Is it “cheap”?
In the UK, the base Passenger model of the PV5 is priced from £32,995 (~ $44,000 USD) for the 51.5 kWh variant.
That’s relatively competitive for an electric van with modular design, though not “cheap” in everyday car terms.
The “cheap” label is more relative to other electric vans, modular commercial vehicles, and the flexibility it offers for conversions and business use.
Why it could be a game changer
Modular architecture allows one basic vehicle to become many different types (van, passenger, cargo, wheelchair model).
Lower loading height and flat floor make it practical for logistics, cargo, delivery services.
Electric powertrain, added flexibility in interior layout, and software/fleet features make it appealing for commercial users.
Kia is positioning it as part of a broader shift into “purpose-built vehicles” (PBVs), factoring in business / fleet needs.
What is the Kia PV5?
Is it “cheap”?
Why it could be a game changer