Kia made a significant entrance into the competitive electric van market at CES 2024 by unveiling a series of innovative concepts. Responding to the surge in demand for eco-friendly delivery solutions driven by increased home deliveries, Kia showcased three concept vans, including the versatile PV5. Unlike traditional minivans, the PV5 is designed for commercial use, featuring a modular design that allows quick transformation from a passenger van to a specialized work vehicle during the day. Alongside the PV5, Kia introduced the PV7, tailored for cargo transport, and the PV1, emphasizing urban maneuverability.
The PV5's adaptable configuration and removable body section offer flexibility for various business needs. Kia's vision extends beyond production to incorporate autonomous driving features, as demonstrated in concept videos. The company plans to manufacture approximately 150,000 electric vans annually in South Korea. While pricing details and availability for customers remain undisclosed, Kia aims to provide an integrated fleet management system and specialized customer support, positioning itself as a formidable player in the electric commercial vehicle space.