Kia Corporation has taken a significant step forward in electric mobility with the global debut of the PV5 at the 2025 Kia EV Day in Tarragona, Spain. The mid-sized Car Derived Van (CDV) is the first production model under Kia’s groundbreaking Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) strategy, redefining flexibility, modularity, and customization in electric vehicle (EV) design.
With the launch of PV5, Kia aims to transform urban mobility, logistics, and fleet operations, offering a highly adaptable EV that can seamlessly cater to multiple industries and customer needs.
What Makes the Kia PV5 a Game-Changer?
Three Versatile Body Styles – Passenger, Cargo, and Chassis Cab, catering to diverse commercial and personal mobility needs.
Built on Kia’s E-GMP.S Platform – A dedicated battery-electric skateboard architecture enabling modular vehicle design.
Advanced Electrification Capabilities – Enhanced productivity, operational efficiency, and reduced downtime with predictive maintenance.
Modular & Customizable Configurations – Designed with Kia’s Flexible Body System, allowing businesses to create tailored vehicle solutions.
“By integrating the clean efficiency of an electric powertrain with the unprecedented flexibility of our new PBV architecture, the PV5 embodies our vision as a sustainable mobility solutions provider,” said Ho Sung Song, President and CEO at Kia.
Kia’s Revolutionary PBV Platform: E-GMP.S & Modular Flexibility
Kia’s Electric-Global Modular Platform for Service (E-GMP.S) is a first-of-its-kind PBV-dedicated EV platform, designed to meet the dynamic needs of business customers.
Integrated Modular Architecture (IMA): Standardizes key components like batteries and motors, optimizing production and reducing costs.
Flexible Skateboard Concept: Enables seamless upper body customization across multiple commercial vehicle segments.
Puzzle-Like Modular Assembly: The Flexible Body System allows interchangeable body components, ensuring rapid customization and scalability.
Kia’s PBVs will be offered in standard and conversion models, including:
Passenger, Cargo, Chassis-Cab, and WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle).
Crew, Drop Side, Box Van, Freezer Box, Prime (advanced Passenger model), and Light Camper conversion models.
State-of-the-Art PBV Manufacturing at Kia’s EVO Plant
To accelerate production efficiency, Kia has established the EVO Plant, a dedicated PBV manufacturing facility that:
Utilizes a hybrid conveyor & cell-based system for optimized vehicle assembly.
Includes a conversion center for customized vehicle production, backed by Kia’s official warranty.
Minimizes waste & costs, providing businesses with ready-to-use PBVs without aftermarket modifications.
Advanced Software & AI-Powered Predictive Maintenance
Kia is enhancing the user experience with cutting-edge software and connectivity solutions:
Android Automotive Operating System (AAOS): Seamless in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) for business apps & fleet management.
Smart IoT Integration: Collaboration with Samsung’s SmartThings Pro to connect PBVs to broader IoT ecosystems.
Predictive Maintenance Services: AI-driven diagnostics reduce downtime, improving fleet efficiency and cost savings.
Strategic Collaborations to Expand PBV Ecosystem
Kia is actively partnering with industry leaders to enhance the PBV segment:
BraunAbility – Developing Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) solutions.
42dot & Samsung Electronics – Expanding connected software and automation capabilities.
Fleet Operators & Logistics Providers – Creating a holistic mobility ecosystem for businesses.
