Kia PV5 named 2026 International Van of the Year

Kia Corporation has announced that its new all-electric PV5 has won the 2026 International Van of the Year (IVOTY). This is the first time a Korean vehicle has won the award since the competition started in 1992. The announcement was made during the IVOTY Gala at SOLUTRANS 2025 in Lyon, France, where 26 commercial vehicle journalists from around the world voted for the winner.

The PV5 competed against six other models and came out on top. The award is given based on how well a van improves daily business operations in areas like performance, technology, safety, and environmental impact. The PV5 is Kia’s first electric light commercial vehicle (eLCV) under its Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) lineup. It runs on the E-GMP.S platform and offers up to 416 km of driving range for the Cargo Long version and 412 km for the 5-seater Passenger version. Using a DC fast charger, it can go from 10 to 80 percent in around 30 minutes. The PV5 can also carry up to 790 kg of cargo.

It holds a Guinness World Record for the longest distance traveled by a light-duty electric van on a single charge while carrying maximum payload, 693.38 km. The van is available with three battery sizes: 43.3 kWh, 51.5 kWh, and 71.2 kWh. Kia built the PV5 with flexibility in mind. It has a flat floor and modular body design, making it easier to fit for cargo, passengers, or custom uses. It also includes next-generation features such as a built-in AI assistant, app access, and fleet management tools.

The van is easy to maintain, with exterior parts made to be removed and replaced without needing full repairs. Other features also include a low step height, flat cargo area, and mounting points for upfitting. The PV5 was made with safety from the start. It uses a strong body structure with high-strength steel and EV-specific battery protection. It also includes modern safety features such as Lane Keeping Assist and a 360-degree camera.

Kia worked closely with real business users while designing the PV5. This helped shape the features, layout, and digital tools of the van to match how people actually use commercial vehicles in areas like delivery, transport, and mobility services.

The PV5 is now available in two versions in Europe: Cargo Long and Passenger 5-seater. In 2026, Kia will add more options including Chassis Cab, Cargo Standard (L1H1), and a High Roof (L2H2) variant. Larger models like the PV7 and PV9 are also in the works as part of Kia’s growing PBV line. Check out Kia’s lineup at AutoDeal.com.ph