- Prototypes of the Kia PV5 have been spotted in both LCV and passenger van configurations.
- The standout feature of this fully electric model is its swappable upper body modules.
- The midsize van is expected to be unveiled soon, ahead of its market launch in early 2025.
Update 9/25: We’ve just snagged fresh shots of Kia’s upcoming electric van testing in Europe, and this time, our spies caught the passenger version, which will be sold alongside the commercial variants.
Earlier this year, Kia showed concepts of its upcoming Purpose-Built Vehicles, including the PV5, which is set to debut in the first quarter of 2025. The development of the midsize van continues, and our spy photographers spotted camouflaged prototypes in commercial and passenger van flavors.
The Kia PV5 has a boxy silhouette and familiar proportions – typical of LCVs – but a closer look reveals some unique styling features. These include the large greenhouse, the glossy black panels, the thick plastic cladding, the slim LED headlights, and the four-spoke wheels. The passenger version has regular windows on the sides, distinguishing it from the panel van.
More: Iveco eMoovy Is An Electric Van Based On The Hyundai Staria
Differences compared to the concept include the conventional mirrors, the thicker pillars, and the smaller wheels. We can also see a part of the unpainted plastic cladding around the wheel arches, doing without the fancy texture of the concept.
The LCV prototype was spotted in Germany, benchmarking against the similarly-sized VW ID.Buzz, and the slightly larger Hyundai Staria. For a good measure, the electric Volkswagen measures 4,712 mm (185.5 inches) long, while the ICE-powered Hyundai stretches 5,255 mm (206.9 inches) long.
KIA PV5 Passenger Van
KIA PV5 LCV
SH Proshots
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. The model is also expected to offer various seating arrangements in two-row and three-row configurations.
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.
More: Kia And Uber Partner On Custom Ride Hailing Vehicles
We expect more prototype sightings of the Kia PV5 as we move closer to its debut. Last month, Kia teased the production version of the van during the IAA Transportation Show in Hannover, hinting at an imminent debut before the early 2025 market launch.
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 Concept
