Kia debuts electric vans at IAA Hanover

Kia has held the European premiere of its new Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) concept at IAA Hanover. With PBVs, Kia is entering the light-commercial vehicle (LCV) market in Europe late next year (or more likely in 2026).

Backed by a seven-year/150,000 km warranty, Kia says its range of purpose-built electric vehicles will disrupt the LCV market, with the brand having an ambitious target of becoming a top-three player in full-electric vans.

Kia’s PBV line-up of electric vans will include several sizes, ranging from small to large. The PV5 seems similar in size to the Volkswagen ID.Buzz Cargo. In concept format, Kia has shown the PV5 in various other forms to display versatility – a high-roof model, a people-carrying minibus, a self-driving robo-taxi and a pick-up truck.

Fully customer-centric and ideal for both B2B and private customers, Kia says its PBVs uniquely combine fit-for-purpose EVs with advanced software solutions, over-the-air updates and best-in-class dimensions and loading capacities. The PV5 concept, PV5 People Mover concept, PV5 High Roof concept and PV7 concept were all on show at the Kia stand in Germany. The introduction of the production version is planned for summer 2025.

“In order to disrupt the LCV market, an all-in approach is needed to maximise the benefits of a dedicated platform for a wide range of customers,” said Marc Hedrich, president of Kia in Europe.

“While this approach is not a first for electric passenger cars, it’s certainly the first time we see it for LCV. This is a benchmark moment, and our PBVs are set to deliver better accessibility, higher volumes, and lower running costs, to completely change logistics and mobility.”