The upcoming introduction of the Kia PV5 maxi van is imminent
The Kia PV5, a new addition to the electric vehicle (EV) market, is a compact EV designed primarily for passenger and business use. Built on the E-GMP.S platform tailored for purpose-built vehicles (PBVs), the PV5 offers a unique blend of functionality, versatility, and efficiency.
Dimensions and Platform
The PV5 is built on the E-GMP.S platform, a modular, scalable electric vehicle architecture designed specifically for PBVs. This platform offers high design flexibility, modular body components, and serviceability, including modular doors, body panels, tailgates, and an interior that can be easily converted for different use cases.
The PV5 prioritizes elevated ground clearance and reinforced battery protection with wider buffer zones to enhance safety across varied driving conditions.
Motor and Battery
The PV5 comes with a single electric motor producing 120 kW (161 hp) and 250 Nm of torque. Three battery options are available: a 43.3 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP), a 51.5 kWh Nickel Cobalt Manganese (NCM), and a 71.2 kWh NCM (the largest pack). The motor is paired with all battery variants uniformly for cost efficiency and optimized use cases.
The vehicle supports an 11 kW AC charger with Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) and Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) capabilities, enhancing energy management flexibility.
Range and Charging
Though exact EPA or WLTP range figures vary by market and battery size, the largest battery variant targets a substantial range competitive within its segment. Fast charging supports up to 150 kW, enabling swift recharge times.
Design and Interiors
The PV5 sports a functional, versatile design with a building-block approach for easy conversions and customizable configurations. This allows transforming from standard passenger format to specialized use cases, such as delivery or camping.
The concept version includes integrated solar panels on the roof to supplement battery power and extend off-grid capability in the WKNDR camper variant, which also incorporates modular interiors with configurable sleeping platforms and a slide-out kitchen drawer for outdoor use.
Exterior features include 16” wheels, LED headlights, aero wiper blades, and multiple driver assistance systems such as Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance, Forward Collision Avoidance, and Highway Driving Assist.
Interior tech highlights include a 360° Surround View Monitor, Digital Key 2.0, and an Android Automotive-based infotainment system focused on fleet management and passenger convenience.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The main passenger model (K4 5-Seat) with the 71.2 kWh battery is priced around €49,000 before grants and rebates, with government incentives potentially lowering the cost significantly depending on region. Multiple trims exist, supported by flexible interior and software options tailored for both consumers and business fleets.
Competition
The PV5 competes with compact electric SUVs and crossovers like the Škoda Enyaq, Peugeot e-3008, Ford Explorer EV, and Vauxhall Grandland EV variants. Kia positions the PV5 strongly for efficiency, ruggedness, and modularity compared to peers, with a cost-effective PBV-specific design catering to a range of user needs and conversions.
Unique E-GMP.S Platform and Flexible Body System
The E-GMP.S platform is a specialized derivative of Kia’s global electric platform optimized for PBVs. It features modular brackets for easy maintenance, cost savings, and adaptable battery/motor setups for different applications.
The Flexible Body System allows modular construction of major components (doors, panels, tailgate) facilitating rapid reconfiguration and production efficiency unprecedented in this vehicle segment.
In summary, the Kia PV5 offers a highly modular, safe, and flexible electric platform with multiple battery options and a focus on practical design for varied uses. Its combination of competitive battery capacity, robust safety features, advanced driver assists, and a novel PBV-optimized platform distinguishes it in the compact EV and light commercial vehicle markets.
- The average range of the Kia PV5, an electric vehicle (EV) well-suited for both passenger and business use, can vary depending on market and battery size, with the largest battery variant being competitive within its segment.
- The Kia PV5, a new entrant in the electric-vehicle market, boasts a unique, adaptable lifestyle with its versatile, functional design, featuring electric-motor options and multiple battery packs tailored for different use cases, such as delivery or camping.
