• The Kia PV5 makes its spy debut in Germany.
  • The highlight of the fully electric model will be the swappable upper body modules.
  • The midsize van from Korea was caught benchmarking against a VW ID.Buzz and a Hyundai Staria.

Earlier this year, Kia showed concepts of its upcoming Purpose-Built Vehicles, including the PV5, which is set to debut in early 2025. The development of the midsize van continues, and our spy photographers spotted a prototype trying to hide its identity under heavy camouflage.

From a distance, the model looks like a typical LCV, featuring a boxy shape and typical proportions. However, a closer look at the uncovered side windows reveals that this is the upcoming Kia PV5, most likely wearing the final production body.

More: Kia And Uber Partner On Custom Ride Hailing Vehicles

Differences compared to the concept include the conventional mirrors, the slightly tweaked greenhouse, and the black steelies. We can also see a part of the unpainted plastic cladding around the wheel arches, doing without the fancy texture of the concept.

The prototype was photographed in Germany, together with the similarly-sized VW ID.Buzz, and the slightly larger Hyundai Staria, giving us a good idea of its footprint. The electric Volkswagen measures 4,712 mm (185.5 inches) long, while the ICE-powered Hyundai stretches 5,255 mm (206.9 inches) long. The production models were likely used for benchmarking purposes, a common practice in the automotive industry.

Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form

The Kia PV5 prototype (middle) next to the Hyundai Staria (left) and the VW ID.Buzz (right).

We already know that the Kia PV5 will be available in Basic, Van, High Roof, and Chassis Cab bodystyles, made possible by the interchangeable upper body modules that will be shipped in the form of standardized kits. These will be attached by mechanical couplings and electromagnetic fixture points, allowing owners to customize the PV5 according to their needs.

All of Kia’s Purpose-Built Vehicles will ride on the e-CCPM (Electric Complete Chassis Platform Module) architecture. The company has yet to announce details about the specifications of the battery packs and the electric motors.

We expect more prototype sightings of the Kia PV5 as we move closer to its debut. The model will be later joined by the smaller PV1 and the larger PV7, expanding Kia’s Purpose-Built Vehicle lineup. All of them will be produced in a new facility in Korea, with an annual capacity of 150,000 units. The automaker has also signed a memorandum of understanding with Uber, for the development and deployment of PBVs in the ride-hailing business.

Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form
Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form
Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form
Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form
Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form
Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form
Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form
Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form
Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form
Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form
Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form
Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form
Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form
Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form
Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form
Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form
Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form
Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form
Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form
Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form
Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form
Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form
Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form
Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form
Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form
Kia PV5 Electric Van Spied In Production Form

SH Proshots