LYON, France: The all-electric Kia PV5 has been named the 2026 International Van of the Year (IVOTY), marking a historic first for both the brand and a Korean manufacturer.
The award was presented on Nov 19 at the IVOTY Award Gala during Solutrans 2025 in Lyon, France, following a unanimous decision by 26 commercial vehicle journalists.
Established in 1992, IVOTY is recognised as the most authoritative global award in the light commercial vehicle (LCV) sector.
Winners are selected through a comprehensive assessment of how each model contributes to improving real-world productivity and advancing the LCV segment.
Criteria include technological innovation, operational efficiency, safety and environmental performance.
The Kia PV5 delivered standout performance, emerging ahead of six other contenders.
It also breaks new ground as Asia’s first electric van and the first Korean model to receive this honour, making Kia only the second Asian brand to achieve this distinction in the competition’s 34-year history.
“The all-electric Kia PV5 sets a new benchmark for innovation, efficiency, and all-round capability in the light commercial vehicle segment. It combines zero-emission performance with versatility and practicality, redefining what businesses can expect from a modern van,” said International Van of the Year jury chairman Jarlath Sweeney.
In appreciation of this recognition, Kia Corp president and CEO Ho Sung Song said, “Kia has long stood at the forefront of EV (electric vehicle) innovation, and the PV5 brings that leadership into the commercial vehicle space with purpose.”
The PV5 is Kia’s first eLCV and the inaugural model in its Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) line-up.
Built on a dedicated Electric-Global Modular Platform for Service (E-GMP.S), the PV5 offers an all-electric range (WLTP) of up to 416km for Cargo Long and 412km for Passenger five-seater.
It also delivers DC fast charging from 10 to 80% in 30 minutes, and a payload capacity of up to 790kg.
The PV5 has also earned a Guinness World Records title for “the greatest distance travelled by a light-duty battery-powered electric van with maximum payload on a single charge”, achieving 693.38km.
Supporting real-world versatility, the PV5’s Flexible Body System and flat-floor architecture allow multiple upper-body configurations — from cargo to passenger to conversion-ready modules.
Inside, the vehicle integrates next-generation digital interfaces including a built-in AI (artificial intelligence) assistant, fleet management services, and app marketplace to enhance uptime and operations.
To match business needs, the PV5 offers three battery options (43.3 kWh, 51.5 kWh and 71.2 kWh) and modular exterior components that reduce repair complexity.
Key usability features include a low entry height, flat cargo floor and integrated mounting points for easy upfitting.
Safety is engineered from the platform up, with a reinforced multi-load-path body structure, expanded use of high-strength steel and EV-specific battery protection.
A suite of advanced driver-assistance systems — including Surround View Monitoring and Lane Keeping Assist — support confident operation in busy commercial environments.
Available now in Cargo Long and Passenger five-seater versions across Europe, the PV5 will be joined from 2026 by new variants, including a Chassis Cab, Cargo Standard (L1H1) and High Roof (L2H2).
Additional PBV models will follow — such as the larger PV7 and PV9.
