Kia Unveils PV5 Electric Van: Affordable Alternative to Diesel Rivals

Kia has introduced the PV5, an electric van, as the first model in its Platform Beyond Vehicles (PBV) lineup. Priced at approximately €30,000 (excluding VAT), it aims to undercut diesel competitors like the Ford Transit Custom. - The PV5 utilizes a modified version of the Kia EV3's 400V E-GMP platform, optimized for commercial use with a flat rear loadbay and enhanced payload. - It features a 161bhp front-mounted electric motor and offers three battery options, with the largest 71.2kWh pack providing a range of up to 249 miles. - Charging from 10-80% takes about 30 minutes. - Available variants include cargo, crew-cab, passenger, and wheelchair-accessible (WAV) models, with a higher-riding off-road version also planned. - The interior features 7.0in and 12.9in display screens, with the infotainment system running on Android Automotive, offering business-specific app installations.