Kia has confirmed plans to launch its first dedicated electric van, the PV5, with production starting in July 2025. While the company hasn’t officially confirmed UK timings, a UK arrival is expected in 2026, based on information shared during Kia’s recent CEO Investor Day event.
The PV5 leads a new line of Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) models aimed at fleet and business customers globally. It will be available in a variety of configurations, including Cargo, Passenger, and Chassis Cab, alongside market-specific conversion models such as a Crew Van, Refrigerated Box Truck, Light Camper, Open Bed, and Premium B2C version.
The PV5 will be built at Kia’s Hwaseong EVO Plant in Korea. The same facility will produce the larger PV7 in 2027 and the flagship PV9 in 2029. Kia is targeting 250,000 PBV sales globally by 2030, with key markets including Europe and Korea.
The PBV rollout is supported by a wide-ranging infrastructure plan, including a new fleet management system with predictive maintenance tools, bundled finance, charging and maintenance packages, and a one-billing system. Kia will also launch dedicated PBV dealerships, an online conversion portal for bodybuilders, and a standalone PBV website for buyers.
While the PV5 is widely expected to reach the UK next year, Kia has no plans to offer its upcoming pickup trucks — including the new Tasman and an electric pickup for North America — in the UK market.
The diesel-powered Tasman pickup will launch later this year in Korea, Australia, and emerging markets. Kia is aiming for 80,000 units annually, with a 6% market share in those regions.
Further ahead, Kia will introduce a new electric pickup truck for North America, based on a bespoke EV platform. The model is designed to combine urban usability with off-road capability and will offer best-in-class interior and cargo space, a strong towing system, and the latest infotainment and safety technologies. Kia’s sales target for the EV pickup is 90,000 units per year, aiming for a 7% segment share.
Both the PBV vans and pickup trucks form part of Kia’s wider ‘Plan S 2030’ strategy, which includes launching 15 electric vehicles by 2030 and growing global vehicle sales to 4.19 million units annually. Kia plans to invest KRW 42 trillion (around £22 billion) between 2025 and 2029 to support its ambitions across EVs, commercial vehicles, and next-generation technologies.
Speaking at Kia’s CEO Investor Day, President and CEO Ho Sung Song said the company was focused on adapting to industry changes with sustainable mobility solutions: “We will continue to develop the brand by implementing mid-to-long-term strategies to strengthen our internal stability and respond effectively to changes in the auto industry.”
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