Kia’s All-Electric PV5 Wins Prestigious ‘2026 International Van of the Year’ Award

Kia Corporation proudly announces that its first fully electric van, the PV5, has been named the 2026 International Van of the Year (IVOTY)—a historic first for both Kia and the Korean automotive industry. Presented during the IVOTY Award Gala at SOLUTRANS 2025 in Lyon, France, the award was unanimously decided by 26 of the world’s leading commercial vehicle journalists. This milestone also marks the PV5 as Asia’s first electric van and the first Korean model to earn this top honor in the global light commercial vehicle sector.

Chosen from seven strong contenders, the Kia PV5 impressed jurors with its outstanding combination of technological innovation, operational efficiency, advanced safety systems, and zero-emission performance. Built on the new E-GMP.S dedicated electric platform, the PV5 delivers up to 416 km of range (WLTP), DC fast-charging from 10–80% in approximately 30 minutes, and a payload capacity of up to 790 kg. Its real-world capability has already been proven after the PV5 Cargo Long achieved a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the longest distance travelled by an electric van with full payload on a single charge at 693.38 km.

Developed under Kia’s customer-centric PBV (Platform Beyond Vehicle) strategy, the PV5 integrates a Flexible Body System, allowing versatile upper-body conversions for cargo, passenger, and mobility-service applications. Inside, it features next-generation digital technologies including an AI-powered assistant, integrated fleet-management tools, and modular components designed to reduce repair complexity. With three battery options, low entry height, flat cargo floors, and advanced safety features such as Surround View Monitoring and Lane Keeping Assist, the PV5 sets a new benchmark for modern commercial EVs.

Available in Cargo Long and Passenger 5-seater configurations in Europe, the PV5 will expand its lineup in 2026 with additional variants including Cargo Standard (L1H1), High Roof (L2H2), and Chassis Cab. More PBV models—such as the larger PV7 and PV9—will follow, strengthening Kia’s ambition to lead the next era of electric mobility for businesses worldwide. Winning the 2026 IVOTY confirms Kia’s readiness to redefine the commercial vehicle landscape through smart, sustainable, and customer-focused mobility innovation.

Kia PV5 Specifications