Kia is gearing up to launch several new PV5 electric van variants, including a High Roof model. Spotted driving in public, the PV5 High Roof looks considerably bigger than the standard model.
First look at the Kia PV5 High Roof in real life
After launching the PV5 last year, Kia’s electric van has quickly become a top-seller in retail and commercial markets.
The PV5 is the first from Kia’s Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) business, a lineup of high-tech, custom electric vans.
Kia’s PBVs offer much more than the typical van as “total mobility solutions,” integrating Hyundai’s software-based solutions like charging and in-vehicle infotainment with its dedicated E-GMP.S platform.
The modular skateboard-style platform and Flexible Body System enable Kia to offer nearly any size and configuration.
While core components like the batteries and motors are standardized, the other modules can be swapped out like building blocks.
The PV5 is available in two main body types: Passenger, for personal use, and Cargo, for businesses.
At the Busan Mobility Show last month, Kia introduced three new variants, including the PV5 Passenger 7-Seater (2-2-3) and Prime models, plus the PV5 Cargo High Roof. While the new models were on display at the event, we are starting to see them pop up in the real world.
The PV5 Cargo High Roof was spotted driving in South Korea for the first time ahead of its official launch, which is expected this fall.
In the new video from HealerTV, it’s clear that the High Roof model is considerably taller than the standard PV5 Cargo.
According to Kia, the PV5 Cargo High Roof is 295 mm taller than the standard version. It also features a redesigned interior layout that makes it easier to move from the driver’s seat to the back area.
The new variant will be offered with enclosed and refrigerated configurations. Both are equipped with a safety device that warns drivers if the rear door is open when shifted into park or reverse. The PV5 shown in the video is the enclosed version.
Kia opened orders for the PV5 Passenger 7-seater in the UK last month, starting at £33,195 ($44,500).
The PV5 Cargo High Roof is expected to go on sale this fall. Kia will continue expanding the PV5 lineup with a new 5-seater (1-1-2) for taxis, a truck “exclusively for small business owners,” plus “models specialized for outdoor and leisure activities,” the company said.
The PV5 Passenger is available with two battery packs: 51.5 kWh and 71.2 kWh, providing WLTP ranges of up to 183 miles and 256 miles, respectively.
The Cargo version uses the same battery packs, but provides WLTP ranges of 184 miles and 258 miles, respectively.
Next year, Kia will launch the larger PV7 (which we also got a sneak peek of), followed by the PV9 by 2030.
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