Kia's PV5 Electric Van Spotted as Versatile Open-Bed Truck, Signaling Broader Commercial EV Strategy
Key Insights
Kia's PV5 electric vehicle, part of its new Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) business, was recently observed in Korea as a distinct open-bed truck variant.
The PV5 series leverages the flexible E-GMP.S platform, enabling diverse configurations including passenger, cargo, camper, and refrigerated models.
This sighting underscores Kia's ambition to offer comprehensive "total mobility solutions" in the commercial electric vehicle market, extending beyond traditional van designs.
The open-bed PV5, set for launch in Europe and Korea, highlights the modularity and adaptability of Kia's dedicated electric commercial vehicle architecture.
SEOUL – Kia's ambitious foray into the dedicated commercial electric vehicle (EV) segment gained tangible form with the recent public sighting of an open-bed variant of its PV5 electric van in Korea. This development signals a significant expansion of Kia's "Platform Beyond Vehicle" (PBV) business, aiming to redefine commercial mobility solutions through highly adaptable electric platforms. The PV5, initially launched in Passenger and Cargo configurations in the UK, is now demonstrating its inherent modularity with a truck-like iteration, emphasizing Kia's strategic pivot towards versatile, purpose-built EVs for diverse industry needs.
The PV5 is the vanguard of Kia's PBV initiative, built upon the flexible E-GMP.S electric vehicle platform. This architecture is designed to support a wide array of specialized variants, including future camper vans, refrigerated transport units, luxury "Prime" models for passenger services, and the newly observed open-bed utility vehicle. The public appearance, captured by HealerTV, showcased the PV5 open-bed variant charging, revealing a distinct profile from its van counterparts. While maintaining the signature slim vertical LED headlights of the PV5 family, the vehicle's side and rear profiles clearly resemble a compact utility truck, sitting low to the ground.
Measuring 5,000 mm in length, 1,900 mm in width, and 2,000 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,000 mm, the open-bed PV5 is engineered for practical load-carrying capabilities, though specific bed dimensions remain undisclosed. Kia has stated that the open-bed variant, alongside Passenger, Cargo, and Chassis Cab configurations, is slated for launch in Europe and Korea later this year. Existing PV5 Passenger and Cargo models offer battery options of 51.5 kWh and 71.2 kWh, providing WLTP ranges of up to 249 miles and 247 miles respectively. Kia has indicated that the open-bed version will boast "the longest driving range among compact commercial EVs in its class," with detailed specifications to be released closer to its market introduction.
This strategic move by Kia reflects a broader industry trend towards purpose-built electric commercial vehicles that can be tailored to specific operational requirements, moving beyond mere electrification of existing internal combustion engine platforms. The integration of "Hyundai's advanced software" into the PBV lineup further suggests a focus on connectivity and fleet management capabilities, crucial for modern commercial applications. Looking ahead, Kia plans to introduce larger PBV models, the PV7 in 2027 and the PV9 in 2029, alongside a smaller PV1 expected by 2027, solidifying its long-term commitment to a comprehensive electric commercial vehicle ecosystem.