Kia is gearing up to launch its inaugural lineup of electric commercial vehicles, and today it previewed the exterior design of its all-new PV5 van and people mover – just as we received the first spy shots of the cab-chassis version.
The Kia PV5 range has been confirmed to comprise “several configurations” including the PV5 Passenger people mover and the PV5 Cargo delivery van officially revealed today, but these spy pics show there will also be a pickup derivative.
The new line of light commercial electric vehicles (EVs) will be the first of its type from the fast-growing Korean auto brand, whose all-new Tasman will mark Kia’s entry into the large and lucrative ute market in coming months.
While an EV version of the ladder-frame Tasman is also expected, Kia’s battery-powered light commercials will be based on a dedicated Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) electric vehicle architecture, and the mid-sized PV5 range is expected to be joined by additional LCV model lines in the future.
Kia plans to publicly unveil the PV5 Passenger and Cargo, as well as preview further models and specialised conversion options, at the 2025 Kia EV Day later this month, followed by the release of full details on February 27.
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The PV5 resembles the current diesel-only Hyundai Staria, which is also available in both people mover and Staria Load van configurations.
Kia’s PV5 Passenger features a geometric design in keeping with several other new Kia models, providing “excellent visibility” as a result of its large window area and “low beltline”.
Other exterior details include sharp daytime running lights and headlights, black wheel-arch cladding, as well as a single lift-up tailgate like the Staria’s.
The PV5 Cargo, meanwhile, keeps the same basic exterior design but swaps out the Passenger’s rear windows for solid body panelling. A key difference is its forklift-friendly rear barn door setup, which is optional on the Staria Load.
The yet-to-be-revealed PV5 cab-chassis pickup you see here is fitted with a folding tray at the rear.
Despite wearing heavy camouflage, it appears to have the same basic exterior proportions, with the front portion of the cab retained up to its B-pillar.
Set to follow the PV5 are the PV1 and PV7, which are yet to be fully detailed. All of these vehicles will incorporate fleet-based data-tracking software, which will allow fleet managers and businesses to manage sales, inventory and delivery data.
Kia also says new AI software in the vehicles will be able to adapt to driver preferences and routines in order to create a more personalised and efficient experience.
Kia’s 2025 EV Day will take place in Tarragona, Spain next week.
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