Tag: Kia PV5

  • Kia Beats Tesla with PV5 Cargo Van Range and Model 3 Efficiency

    Kia Beats Tesla with PV5 Cargo Van Range and Model 3 Efficiency

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Kia PV5 electric van set a Guinness World Record by traveling over 430 miles on a single charge with a 71 kWh battery while carrying nearly 1,500 pounds.
    2. The real-world test was conducted on a 36-mile loop simulating typical city and highway driving, completed in over 22 hours while adhering to the maximum weight rating.
    3. The van achieved an efficiency of around 11 kWh per 100 km (17.7 kWh per 100 miles), outperforming many similar vehicles, including the Tesla Model 3.
    4. The PV5 offers fast DC charging, reaching 80% capacity in just 30 minutes, and has batteries that maintain capacity better over time compared to other brands.
    5. The PV5 series can be configured for passenger or cargo use, with a starting price of around $37,000 projected for the U.S. cargo variant in 2026.

    The Kia PV5 electric van has achieved a remarkable feat by traveling over 430 miles on a single charge from its 71 kWh battery, setting a Guinness World Record for loaded light cargo vehicles.

    Real-World Testing

    Despite carrying a payload of nearly 1,500 pounds, this Kia van completed a journey designed to reflect everyday driving conditions. The test was conducted on a 36-mile (58 km) loop that featured a typical blend of city streets and highways, simulating the routes that delivery drivers commonly navigate.

    It took a dedicated van reviewer along with a PV5 development engineer more than 22 hours to cover this impressive distance, all while adhering to the maximum Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).

    Efficiency Stats

    The van’s 430-mile range translates to an efficiency of around 11 kWh per 100 km, or 17.7 kWh per 100 miles. This is quite an achievement for a cargo vehicle that tipped the scales at over 2.5 tons during the test. For context, Tesla Model 3 drivers have reported a similar efficiency of 18 kWh per 100 miles in optimal situations, but the more average figure is around 22 kWh.

    To emphasize its efficiency, Kia conducted additional tests without any cargo. They claim that for every 100 kg (220 pounds) of cargo added, the PV5 only experiences a 1.5% reduction in range when it is empty. This means that Kia’s first electric van, built on Hyundai’s modern modular platform for electric vehicles, could have extended its range by about 40 miles without the hefty 1,500-pound load.

    Charging and Configurations

    In addition to its impressive efficiency, the new Kia van offers the brand’s standard fast DC charging, which can charge the battery up to 80% in just 30 minutes. The battery itself is also expected to have a longer lifespan, as a recent study on EV longevity indicated that Kia’s batteries hold onto their capacity better over time compared to those in Tesla or other electric vehicle brands.

    The PV5 series can be tailored to function as either a passenger or cargo vehicle, and there’s also a version suited for people with reduced mobility. In the United States, the PV5 cargo variant is projected to start around $37,000 when it makes its debut in 2026.

     

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  • Kia Launches PV5 Modular Electric Van with 16 Fleet Configurations

    Kia Launches PV5 Modular Electric Van with 16 Fleet Configurations

    Key Takeaways

    1. The PV5 is designed for business clients, focusing on industries like logistics, delivery, and utilities.
    2. It uses the enhanced E-GMP.S platform, allowing for standardized parts and a shorter development timeline.
    3. Key benefits of modular design include lower maintenance costs, improved durability, and reduced noise and vibration.
    4. The PV5 can offer up to 16 different variants due to its modularity, with customizable body components and features.
    5. Initial launch will include seven configurations, with production expected to start before the end of July.

    Kia has revealed more information regarding its modular electric van program during the PV5 Tech Day event held in South Korea. The PV5 is designed specifically for business clients and has been developed with feedback from industries such as logistics, delivery, and utilities.

    Platform and Design

    The PV5 is constructed on Hyundai’s E-GMP.S (Electric-Global Modular Platform for Service), an enhanced version of the original E-GMP. This improved platform uses standardized parts like batteries, motors, and suspension systems, which not only provide greater flexibility but also help to shorten the development timeline.

    Benefits of Modularity

    One of the key benefits of this modular design includes lower maintenance expenses, better durability, and diminished noise and vibration levels. Nonetheless, the outer panels remain consistent to ensure a uniform look across different variants.

    The E-GMP.S supports three different battery options: 43.3 kWh (LFP), 51.5 kWh (NCM), and 71.2 kWh (NMC). These batteries will fuel a front-mounted electric motor producing 161 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque.

    Customization Options

    Thanks to its modularity, Kia claims that it can create up to 16 different variants using only a few assembly lines. The design allows for swapping body components like doors, tailgates, and panels. Customers will also have the ability to select from a range of rear modules, quarter glasses, and additional customization choices.

    The PV5 features a wheelbase of 9.83 feet and can provide up to 180 cubic feet of cargo space. Additional elements include removable seating, walk-through cabins, USB ports, and an option for wheelchair access with a side-entry ramp.

    Kia has announced that it will launch seven configurations initially, which include passenger long, cargo standard, cargo long, and cargo high roof. Production is anticipated to start before the end of July.

    — Motor Illustrated, The EV Report

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  • Kia PV5 Passenger Pricing Revealed: New VW ID. Buzz Rival

    Kia PV5 Passenger Pricing Revealed: New VW ID. Buzz Rival

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Kia PV5 Passenger electric vehicle starts at €39,995 in Europe, competing with the Volkswagen ID.Buzz.
    2. The PV5 offers two battery options: 51.5 kWh and 71.2 kWh, with higher trims featuring more advanced features.
    3. The Elite trim, available only with the larger battery, starts at €47,745 and includes premium features like a blind spot camera.
    4. The PV5 Passenger is approximately €10,000 cheaper than the ID.Buzz for entry-level models in the EU market.
    5. Orders for the PV5 Passenger will begin in the coming weeks, with deliveries expected to start in October 2025.

    Kia has shared the cost details for its new PV5 Passenger electric family car across multiple EU nations. This electric vehicle (EV) was first revealed earlier this year, aiming to rival the Volkswagen ID.Buzz. Aside from the Passenger model, there are also commercial variants available: the PV5 Cargo, PV5 Crew, and PV5 Chassis Cab.

    Pricing in Europe

    In countries such as the Netherlands, France, and Germany, the starting price for the PV5 Passenger is €39,995 for the Essential version. The Plus trim, which includes features like a heated steering wheel, a wireless phone charger, and V2L support, begins at €40,995. Both variants can be equipped with either a 51.5 kWh or a 71.2 kWh battery.

    Higher Trims and Features

    Moving up, the Elite trim, which is exclusively available with the 71.2 kWh battery, starts at €47,745. This variant comes with various features, including a blind spot camera, side parking sensors, and a 360° camera. The most premium option is the Elite Executive trim, also using the larger battery, priced from €50,245. This model boasts 16-inch alloy wheels along with an electrically operated tailgate and sliding doors.

    Market Comparison and Availability

    When comparing entry-level models, the Kia PV5 Passenger costs roughly €10,000 less than the ID.Buzz in this market. In the UK, pricing for the PV5 Passenger begins at £32,995. Kia has mentioned that it will begin taking orders for the PV5 Passenger in Europe “in the coming weeks,” with initial deliveries planned for October 2025. The Kia PV5 is set to launch in Europe and Korea in 2025, with a rollout to other regions in 2026. However, there are no current plans to sell this EV in the US market.

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