The PV5 is a new line of delivery models from the Korean Kia. It also has a passenger version

Kia is once again returning to the segment of delivery vehicles. There is no doubt that the electrification of the vehicle fleet should happen first and fastest in the delivery segment, in the segment where the kilometers are turned around much more. The Korean manufacturer is also aware of this, so in accordance with this, Kia has launched a new product line that is hidden behind the slogan Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV). Their first model is the PV5, which we ourselves had the opportunity to try in neighboring Slovenia, in their most famous spa, Terme Čatež.

The PV5 model is a medium-sized, so-called one-ton van, which is available in seven versions, of which there are currently two. Sales are opened by the cargo and passenger versions, and the offer will be continuously expanded in the coming period. It is a 469.5 cm long vehicle with large glass surfaces. Of course, if we are talking about the travel edition. For now, there is a version with five seats, which will later be supplemented with a third row of seats. The vehicle looks quite blocky and regular, in fact it reminds me of vehicles I saw in Japan twenty years ago.

Emphasis on practicality

Practicality is the denominator that is required from such vehicles, and Kia wants to emphasize that part by using the AddGear program. It allows customers to customize the interior of the vehicle with modular accessories that resemble custom furniture. This system allows easy addition or modification of components even after the purchase of the vehicle. There are customizable storage spaces, with multiple storage spaces within individual drawers. In the Passenger model, trays are strategically placed on the left side of the driver’s seat, on the back of the floor console, on the grab handle in the third row of seats and on the trunk lining.

There is the possibility of sliding doors on both sides of the vehicle, which can also be electrically operated. On the delivery model, the rear doors are double-winged, while on the passenger version they open upwards. In terms of technology, the PV5 comes with a 7-inch screen instead of the instrument panel and a central 12.9-inch screen. The infotainment system is based on the Android Automotive OS and can be updated over the air (OTA). It is a great thing that the Kia Connect application for smartphones has been available on the Croatian market since a few days ago. However, the Kia Connect module in vehicles will be available a little later, not on the models that are delivered first.

Travel and delivery version

If we are talking about the cargo edition, it is important to know that with a height of 41.9 centimeters, the PV5 has the lowest loading threshold. He’s really short. The cargo space of 4.4 cubic meters can accommodate two euro pallets, and is equipped with hooks for tying down the cargo. A version with a raised roof comes later, and when the volume increases to 5.1 cubic meters. However, the low loading threshold has its limitations, so the space from the end of the vehicle to the end of the wheels on the floor is quite narrow.

Additional practicality (except in the initial equipment level) is also visible in the V2L function. Do we know that these types of vehicles are used by numerous craftsmen who are in the field every day, with this function it is easier for them to use electric tools, i.e. to recharge batteries of electric tools. V2L charging is possible up to 3.6 kW. The PV5 can also be converted into a camping vehicle, when this function also comes into play. For those who have several vehicles, the free Fleet Management System fleet management service is also a good thing. Via the Kia application, it is available for fleets of up to 5 vehicles, while for larger fleets there is a professional version in the Kia Pleos Fleet application.

The PV5 is equipped with two batteries, both lithium-ion. It has a lower net capacity of 51.5 kWh, and a more powerful 71.2 kWh, with the fact that now only the larger one is offered at the beginning of sales. It is accompanied by a 120 kW/163 hp electric motor, while the weaker one is powered by an 89 kW/121 hp electric motor. In both cases, a torque of 250 Nm is available. In both cases, the maximum speed is electronically limited to 135 km/h. The official range according to WLTP is 297 km, while the version with a smaller battery is 416 km with a larger capacity battery. Sometime later, a shorter delivery edition is expected, which will be available with an even smaller battery of 43.4 kWh.

Two batteries and three equipment packs

In the delivery segment, about 50% of the vehicles are modified according to the specific requirements of the customers, in order to make the vehicles as usable as possible. In accordance with such needs, Kia has prepared a completely new factory for this model, which can also satisfy numerous special requests of customers. In addition, Kia cooperates locally with a number of specialized companies that make adjustments at the request of customers. One of them is a version adapted for use by people with disabilities, with a platform that allows wheelchairs to enter the rear, normally cargo area of ​​the vehicle. Drop Side, Box Van and Freezer Box performances are also expected later.

Kia has prepared six available colors for the delivery version, while the passenger version has three more. White is the basic color, metallic color costs 720 euros, and pearl color costs 890 euros. From the second equipment level, the front seats and steering wheel are heated. The first two versions come on 16-inch steel wheels, while the best equipment package includes 16-inch alloy wheels. Only the first level of equipment does not contain a heat pump. A surcharge of 200 euros is added to the regular prices for vehicle preparation and transport, while for the delivery version, a surcharge of 400 euros is required for the four-door version. Also, at the stated prices, it is approved as from 3 thousand euros for cash payment.

Excerpt from the price list – Kia PV5