Electric Revolution: Kia PV5 Electric Van Wins International Van of the Year 2026

Kia PV5 Electric Van

21st November 2025,  Kathmandu

The commercial vehicle world witnesses a historic moment as the all-new Kia PV5 Electric Van claims the coveted 2026 International Van of the Year (IVOTY) award.

Kia PV5 Electric Van

All 26 IVOTY jurors unanimously chose the vehicle, recognizing its exceptional innovation and everyday versatility. This is a monumental debut for Kia’s first fully electric van and the inaugural model in its groundbreaking Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) line-up.

Kia’s victory sets a new standard for the Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) segment, showcasing their decisive leadership in electric mobility.

Redefining Mobility: Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV)

The Kia PV5 is more than just an electric van; it is the launch model of Kia’s dedicated PBV strategy. This vision focuses on creating highly customizable, purpose-built electric vehicles. The PV5’s design emphasizes modularity and practical innovation, moving away from traditional vehicle production models.

The PV5 uses the new Electric-Global Modular Platform for Service (E-GMP.S). This EV-specific skateboard architecture allows for a flat floor and a low step-in height of just 399mm.

These features dramatically improve loading and unloading efficiency, a crucial factor for daily business operations. This dedicated platform provides a superior foundation for flexible body configurations, essential for its commercial role.

The van’s flexible body system supports multiple upper-body configurations, including Cargo, Passenger, and specialized modules.

This adaptability means businesses can custom-fit the vehicle to their exact operational needs, ensuring the PV5 is highly versatile across various industries, from logistics to ride-hailing services. This system truly brings the “Platform Beyond Vehicle” concept to life.

Unmatched Performance and Efficiency

The Kia PV5 Electric Van demonstrates performance and efficiency designed for the demands of commercial use. Kia engineered it for superior operational uptime and maximum range.

Equipped with a high-capacity battery—with options up to 71.2 kWh—the PV5 offers an all-electric range of up to 416 km (WLTP) for the Cargo Long variant.

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Fast charging capability is a game-changer; the battery charges from 10% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes under optimal conditions. This rapid turnaround minimizes downtime and maximizes the vehicle’s productivity.

The PV5’s real-world usability has already been proven. The Cargo Long variant set a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the longest distance travelled by an electric van with maximum payload on a single charge, achieving an impressive 693.38 km. This record confidently demonstrates the PV5’s reliability and superior long-distance capability.

The Digital Future of Commercial Fleets

Kia has integrated next-generation digital interfaces to enhance vehicle uptime and operational management. The van integrates advanced software solutions designed to support optimal business environments.

The cabin features modern, user-friendly digital interfaces and a built-in AI assistant. These tools support efficient fleet management services and provide access to an integrated app marketplace. Such features allow businesses to manage logistics, track performance, and receive over-the-air (OTA) updates, continually improving the vehicle’s functionality.

The V2L feature is vital for on-the-go businesses, supplying 220V power both inside and outside the vehicle. This turns the van into a mobile power source, capable of connecting laptops or powering tools and equipment at job sites. This adds a layer of invaluable practicality to the PV5’s commercial application.

Safety and Practicality

Safety features and practical design elements were prioritized based on extensive customer feedback. The PV5 includes a comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), such as Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Following Assist 2, and Highway Driving Assist.

These technologies actively enhance driver confidence and safety in busy commercial environments. Furthermore, the platform-up engineering includes a reinforced multi-load-path body structure and EV-specific battery protection.

The van’s low entry height, flat cargo floor, and wide 775 mm sliding doors make daily loading and unloading tasks easier and faster. This focus on real-world business needs confirms that the PV5 was meticulously designed to be a true commercial workhorse.

The unanimous decision by the IVOTY jury confirms that the Kia PV5 Electric Van is a benchmark-setter. It successfully blends zero-emission performance with next-level versatility and practicality, solidifying Kia’s place as a leader in the future of smart, sustainable electric mobility.

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