KIA has re-entered the light commercial vehicle segment not just with a new model, but with a complete revolution, and the world immediately gave it what it deserved. The all-electric KIA PV5, which is the first offspring of the Korean concern's futuristic Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) line, has won the prestigious title of “International Van of the Year 2026“ (IVOTY 2026). This historic victory is not only a crown of success for the debut model, but also a source of pride for South Korea, as the PV5 becomes the first Korean car to reach this pedestal.
The recognition was officially announced at a gala ceremony during the Solutrans 2025 exhibition in Lyon, France. The triumph is even more impressive because the international jury, composed of leading commercial vehicle journalists representing 26 countries, voted absolutely unanimously for the PV5. This unprecedented agreement speaks more than a thousand words about the qualities and potential of the electric van.
The PV5 is not just a car - it is a business tool. Its essence lies in modularity, as the PBV line is conceived as a family of electric vehicles that can adapt to countless purposes. KIA skillfully combines flexible hardware with advanced, corporate-oriented software, turning the van into a true chameleon on wheels. The range of options offered is impressive: from the bare Chassis Cab and the standard Cargo Standard L1H1 and High Roof L2H2, to seven specialized modifications – from a practical camper to a high-tech refrigerator.
The jury was captivated by the flat-floor architecture and the extremely flexible body system, which allows for quick and easy configurations, seamlessly switching from cargo to passenger mode. In addition to flexibility, the focus on safety is another key element that tipped the scales. The PV5 is distinguished by its extensive use of high-strength steel and specially designed protection for the battery pack. Confidence behind the wheel is also ensured by advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), such as the All-round Vision System and Lane Keeping Assist, which are indispensable in the busy commercial environment.
KIA CEO Ho Seong-seon summed up the triumph by saying that the PV5 “demonstrates the potential of electric mobility in the commercial sector and paves the way for a rethinking of the entire segment”. He rightly emphasized that the PV5 is not only the first Korean, but also the first electric van in Asia to win this prestigious award. The global success gives a strong impetus to the company’s future plans – in 2027, the range will be expanded with the larger PV7 and PV9 models. Production of the electric van is now in full swing at the new Hwaseong EVO plant, which is designed to reach a colossal annual capacity of 250,000 vehicles. With this award, KIA has not only launched a new product line, but has officially opened the door to a new era in the light commercial vehicle segment.