KIA PV5: Setting The Global Electric Personal Van Standard

The Kia PV5 is a mid-sized electric van built on the modular E-GMP.S platform.

Its standout “Platform Beyond Vehicle” design features interchangeable upper bodies, allowing one chassis to switch between Cargo, Passenger, and Chassis Cab configurations.

Key Specifications:

Battery & Range: Offers 51.5 kWh (183 mi) and 71.2 kWh (256 mi) NMC packs, plus a 43.3 kWh LFP option for urban cargo.
Charging: Supports 150kW DC fast charging, reaching 10–80% in 30 minutes.
Utility: Features a V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) system to power tools and a low 399mm step-in height

1. Body Style and Size Segment (Dimensions)

A compact van/MPV, the PV5 sits in the C/D segment. Standard variants measure $4, 695 mm$ (Length), $1, 895 mm$ (Width), and $1, 899 mm$ (Height), with a $2, 995 mm$ wheelbase. Multiple configurations, including Cargo and Passenger, are available.

2. Platform Architecture, Voltage, Range & Efficiency

Built on the PBV-specific E-GMP.S platform (a modified E-GMP), the PV5 features a 400V electrical architecture. The top-tier $71.2 kWh$ battery offers up to $412 km$ (256 miles) WLTP range, with $10 - 80%$ DC fast-charging in under 30 minutes.

3. Technical Capabilities (Driver Assistance Features)

It features a comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including Highway Driving Assist, Smart Cruise Control, Blind-spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist. V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) functionality is also included.

4. Interior Quality, Storage Capacity (Front & Rear)

The interior features a clean, functional design with a flat floor and low step-in height (399mm). The Passenger model offers up to $3, 615 L$ of luggage volume behind the first row. The Cargo variant offers up to $5.1 m^{3}$ of cargo space.

5. App Functionality

The infotainment system, based on Android Automotive OS, includes a 12.9-inch touchscreen and enables fleet management capabilities, third-party app integration via the Pleos App Market, and dedicated control for vehicle conversions.

6. 3 Pros and 3 Cons

Pros: Modular body design for multiple uses, fast charging capability, class-leading low loading/step-in height.

Cons: Lower payload capacity compared to some rivals, maximum top speed limited to $84 mph$ (Cargo), front-wheel-drive only.

7. Overall Summary

The KIA PV5 is a compelling electric van, designed from the ground up to be a versatile, connected, and easy-to-access PBV. Against competitors like the Volkswagen ID. Buzz, the PV5 offers superior modular flexibility, a lower price point, and a better factory-backed warranty on its many conversion options, though it compromises slightly on overall payload and torque.