Kia targets private hire with new all-electric PV5 MPV and van range

Kia has unveiled its new PV5 electric MPV, and the company is planning to target the new vehicle at the private hire sector.

It forms part of a new Kia light commercial range alongside a panel van version of the PV5, and sees Kia return to the light van market for the first time in 30 years – a van version of the Kia Pride hatchback was briefly sold in the early 1990s.

The mid-sized PV5 is the first model of Kia’s new Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) global business strategy. 

Kia will offer the PV5 in several configurations. As well as the Passenger Van and the Cargo Van versions, specialist converted variants will be part of the range. 

The Kia PV5 has a contemporary design that emphasises flexibility and customisation through a modular approach. Karim Habib, Head of Kia Global Design, said: “Each model confidently expresses a solid, bold, futuristic character and a highly capable attitude.”

The PV5 Passenger Van offers excellent visibility thanks to the large window area, made possible by a low waistline. Black geometric wheel arch claddings and rocker panels give continuity with Kia’s SUV lineup and suggest an off-road character, confidently linking the high-tech upper cabin with the more rugged and purposeful lower body. 

The PV5 also features sliding side doors and a single lift-up tailgate, whereas the Cargo Van has twin side-opening doors. Technical details of the vehicles will be released next week.