Kia, a brand that has seen phenomenal growth in the UK since 1991 – rising from just 1,786 sales to over 113,000 in 2025 – is now entering the commercial vehicle sector with the all-electric PV5. This vehicle is available in both van (Cargo) and passenger (Passenger) configurations, marking a significant expansion for the South Korean manufacturer.
A Bold Move into Commercial Vehicles
Kia’s entry into the van market is noteworthy because it’s designed from the ground up as a fully electric vehicle. This is not an afterthought conversion but a fundamental part of the PV5’s architecture, suggesting future camper conversions and specialized builds will be seamless. This forward-thinking approach is crucial in a market increasingly demanding zero-emission solutions.
Pricing and Incentives
The PV5 Cargo starts at £27,645 (excluding VAT), with the potential for a £5,000 reduction through the Government Plug-in Van Grant. The Passenger model begins at £32,995, eligible for a £1,500 Electric Car Grant. This aggressive pricing positions the PV5 as a highly competitive option.
Battery and Range Options
The PV5 offers two battery options: a 51.5kWh Standard Range providing up to 183 miles of range, and a 71.2kWh Long Range extending that to 258 miles. With DC fast charging up to 150kW, the battery can gain 30% to 80% charge in approximately 30 minutes. These figures are competitive, though real-world range will vary depending on conditions.
Interior and Technology
The interior boasts a modern design, blending practicality with high-tech features. A 7.5-inch driver’s display is paired with a 12.9-inch central touchscreen running an Android-based infotainment system with over-the-air (OTA) updates. Fleet managers will appreciate integration with Geotab, allowing for remote tracking of vehicle location, charge levels, and driving efficiency.
Performance and Handling
Powered by a front-mounted electric motor, the PV5 delivers 120bhp (smaller battery) or 160bhp (larger battery) with 250Nm of torque. Acceleration from 0-62mph takes 12.4 seconds in the long-range Cargo and 16.2 seconds in the standard-range variant. Handling is described as composed, with minimal body lean due to the low center of gravity from the battery pack.
Space and Payload
The PV5 Cargo offers 4,420 liters of cargo volume and a payload ranging from 665kg to 790kg. This surpasses the Volkswagen ID.Buzz in both cargo space (by 500 liters) and payload capacity (by 60kg to 180kg). The Passenger version provides 1,320 liters of luggage space with the rear seats up and expands to 2,315 liters when folded. Sliding doors enhance accessibility.
Competition and Value
The Kia PV5 directly competes with the Volkswagen ID.Buzz, but at a significantly lower price point. The ID.Buzz starts at over £25,000 more. Kia also offers a seven-year/100,000-mile warranty, exceeding Volkswagen’s three-year/60,000-mile coverage.
Conclusion
The Kia PV5 is a compelling entry into the electric commercial vehicle market. Its combination of affordability, practicality, advanced technology, and generous warranty makes it a strong contender, potentially disrupting established players like Volkswagen. Kia has delivered a vehicle that is not only competitive but also offers exceptional value for both fleet buyers and individual customers.
