Kia PV5: Unleashing Power and Innovation for Limitless Mobility

Kia today hosted an exclusive event at its IVEX Studio in Gwangmyeong, South Korea, showcasing the technology behind its PV5 model. The event highlighted the vehicle’s development journey, its core concept, and the cutting-edge technologies driving the first model built on Kia’s Purpose-Built Vehicle (PBV) platform, the Kia PV5.

Kia PV5: Innovation and Flexibility in Sustainable Mobility

Aligned with its global strategy to provide sustainable mobility solutions for all, Kia aims to redefine the fast-growing PBV market with the PV5. The model is now entering mass production, built on a next-generation platform and designed with a customer-centric approach.

The showcase, themed "Adaptive Technology… Expanding Mobility," demonstrated how Kia delivers flexible, forward-thinking mobility solutions that go beyond traditional commercial vehicles, reinforcing its position as a leader in customer-focused sustainable innovation.

Syukha Jo, Head of Group 3 for Multi-Purpose Vehicle Projects in Kia’s R&D Division, commented on the PV5:

"The Kia PV5 is more than just a vehicle; it marks the beginning of an innovative and flexible mobility ecosystem designed from day one based on real customer needs. Its PBV platform and conversion system allow the vehicle to adapt to a wide range of requirements, redefining mobility for individuals and businesses alike."

Customer-Led PV5 Development for Maximum Usability

Kia developed the PV5 with a unique, customer-focused approach. Instead of relying solely on traditional research methods, the company collaborated directly with global customers to design both the vehicle and its software to meet practical daily needs.

As part of this initiative, Kia organised PBV Partner Days in 2022 and 2023, bringing together over 120 customers from Korea, Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Japan. These partners provided practical feedback based on real business needs in mobility, logistics, delivery, and facility management.

This feedback directly influenced key vehicle features, including:

• Use of stain-resistant materials
• Removal of the front passenger seat to expand cargo space
• The “internal aisle” option in high-roof models allows easy movement between the cabin and cargo area

Kia also worked closely with mobility-impaired users to develop the PV5 WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle), featuring a gently sloped side entry ramp, universal securing systems, and a low, spacious floor to ensure accessibility often overlooked in this vehicle segment.

These efforts are anchored in three core pillars of Kia’s custom PBV development strategy:

• Reducing total cost of ownership
• Delivering bespoke PBV development
• Building a scalable ecosystem encompassing both hardware and software

E-GMP: A Foundation for Adaptive Performance

The PV5 is built on the modular E-GMP platform, the first PBV platform from Hyundai Motor Group. This platform integrates key systems, batteries, motors, suspension, and chassis, streamlining development and significantly reducing the time required to design different vehicle configurations.

To maximise interior space, the vehicle’s electric drive components are arranged in the PE chamber, and the driver’s seat is positioned further forward than in traditional custom vehicles.

Kia introduced an innovative suspension design for a lower floor height and enhanced safety through a multi-layered structure reinforced with ultra-high-strength steel, ensuring comprehensive protection for passengers, cargo, and key vehicle components.

Enhanced Battery Safety and Reduced Operating Costs

Battery safety is reinforced with a strengthened front structure and increased ground clearance, along with wider isolation zones between the battery and vehicle body to absorb shocks and reduce damage risk. E-GMP’s design also ensures easier maintenance, lowering operational costs. A fully integrated software system supports fleet management and real-time vehicle monitoring via Android Automotive.

To further reduce the total cost of ownership, PV5 incorporates extensive parts sharing and adaptable battery and motor systems suitable for various use cases, enhancing cost competitiveness.

Battery Options and Performance

The PV5 offers three battery options:

• 43.3 kWh LFP battery
• 51.5 kWh and 71.2 kWh NCM batteries

All options pair with a 160 hp electric motor generating 250 Nm of torque, delivering balanced and flexible performance for all applications.

Adaptive Body: Engineered for Dynamic Performance

For the first time, Kia introduces the Flexible Body Structure in the PV5, modularising key components such as the body, doors, tailgate, and interior and exterior panels. Inspired by a “stacked pieces” concept, this design allows multiple vehicle configurations to be produced efficiently and flexibly.

The front cabin and first-row seats remain standard across all models, while rear modules, side glass, and roof height can be swapped like puzzle pieces. This approach enables Kia to produce up to 16 PV5 variants using a limited number of modular units.

In its initial phase, Kia will offer seven core variants:

• Long passenger models
• Standard cargo models
• Long cargo
• High-roof cargo

The long cargo version can easily convert into a passenger variant by swapping the rear side glass and tailgate, showcasing the system’s adaptability.

Kia also developed dual-layer composite rear panels, composed of three customizable pieces, enhancing durability, ease of repair, and cost-effectiveness without disassembling the full rear section. Reinforced rear structures and pressed steel panels further improve rigidity, reduce noise and vibration, and maintain design quality and vehicle elegance.

Smart Space and Customizable Modules

Thanks to the E-GMP platform and Flexible Body Structure, the PV5 maximises interior space in its segment. Despite being a compact vehicle (C-segment), its 2,995 mm wheelbase and low-floor design provide ample cabin space and cargo capacity exceeding competitors.

Passenger variants offer up to 3.6 m³ of cargo space with folded seats, while maintaining a tight 5.5 m turning radius for city manoeuvrability. Flexible seating arrangements include:

• Two rows (2+3)
• Three rows (2+2+3)
• Custom (1+2+3) for practical use

Cargo variants offer 4.4 m³ in the long cargo model, rising to 5.1 m³ in the high-roof variant, which features an internal sliding door and foldable passenger seat for easy movement between cabin and cargo area.

Practical and Flexible Business Solutions

Kia genuine accessories enhance usability with features such as cargo levelling surfaces for camping and innovative storage solutions, including USB ports, floor and door racks, and sliding central storage units.

The integrated infotainment system runs on Android Automotive with the Pleos app store, allowing vehicle function control and customisation. The open-source AddGear platform enables easy installation of work tools and accessories inside the cabin or on the roof.

Additional Comfort and Safety Features

The PV5 includes second-generation pedal misoperation prevention and automatic door locking when leaving the vehicle, enhancing comfort and safety for drivers and passengers.

Designed for Easy Customisation

From the outset, the PV5 was designed for easy adaptation to customer needs. Kia launched a dedicated PBV Conversion Centre, providing high-quality modified variants meeting the company’s standards for durability and safety.

Base donor vehicles are prepared at the factory by removing unnecessary components and equipping them with power outlets, PBV control units, and compatible infotainment systems, simplifying partner modifications.

The Conversion Portal System provides secure global partner access to technical data, manuals, and direct technical support, ensuring high-quality modifications worldwide. This integrated system and expandable components allow customers to create tailored mobility solutions for their daily needs and lifestyles.

Start of Production and PBV Expansion Plans

Mass production of passenger and cargo (long) PV5 models begins this month, with additional variants planned soon. Kia intends to expand the PBV family with the PV7 in 2027 and PV9 in 2029 to meet a broader range of mobility needs.

These vehicles exemplify Kia’s long-term strategy to make PBVs a core driver of sustainable growth, building a flexible, innovative mobility ecosystem centred on real customer needs and powered by software innovation.

Kia PV5 WKNDR Wins Silver Award at 2025 IDEA

The Kia PV5 WKNDR Concept won a Silver Award in the Automotive & Transportation category at IDEA 2025, in recognition of its innovative and sustainable design.

Based on the versatile PBV concept, it features a highly flexible interior that can be easily customised for optimal space and functionality.

The unique “Gear Head” innovation provides off-board storage that can transform into a mobile kitchen for outdoor enthusiasts.

The concept is equipped with solar panels and hydro turbine wheels for battery recharging in remote locations, while sustainable interior materials such as Nike Grind flooring (made from recycled shoes) combine practicality with eco-conscious design. For the latest updates in the automotive world, visit Motory Car News section.

** All images reserved to Kia Global Media Center & Memac Ogilvy