Kia launches futuristic electric PV5 Cargo van

Korean brand’s first purpose-built electric van arrives with 416km of range

By carsales.com.au

Kia has re-entered the commercial van segment with a futuristic re-thinking of the delivery van concept.

The 2026 Kia PV5 Cargo is the first work-ready van offered by the South Korean car maker since it axed the forgettable Pregio in 2006, and the first model from the brand’s new Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) range.

Priced from $55,990 plus on-roads and available in a single ‘S Long Range’ trim grade, the fleet-focused model claims to deliver up to 416km of WLTP driving range on a single charge and marks the Korean brand’s entry into the growing electric light commercial segment.

Unlike many of battery-powered van rivals, which are adapted from internal combustion platforms, the PV5 Cargo was developed from the outset utilising Kia’s e-GMP.S EV architecture – a variation of the same underpinnings used by the EV6 sedan and EV9 seven-seat SUV.

Available locally in a single configuration finished exclusively in Clear White, the PV5 Cargo combines a 71.2kWh battery with a front-mounted electric motor producing a modest 120kW/250Nm and limited to a maximum speed of 135km/h.

The maximum DC fast-charging rate of 128kW is said to take the battery from 10 to 80 per cent in 30 minutes, while AC charging (up to 10.5kW) will take it from zero to 100 per cent in a claimed 6.5 hours.

Practicality is a key focus, with an array of storage areas across the cabin, along with a low cargo floor and rear step-in height of 419mm.

The load area is said to offer 4420 litres of cargo volume, thanks to maximum internal dimensions of 2255mm x 1565mm x 1520mm. Payload capacity is capped at 740kg.

It comes standard with dual sliding side doors and twin rear barn doors that open 180 degrees, while outside, the electric van measures 4695mm long, 1895mm wide and 1899mm high, with a 2995mm wheelbase and an 11-metre turning circle.

Inside, standard tech includes a 7.5-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen with AM/FM/DAB+ digital radio, wired and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and navigation.

Other features include wireless phone charging, over-the-air (OTA) software updates, a smart key with push-button start and a column-mounted gear selector stalk.

Vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability delivers up to 3.6kW of power via a cargo-area outlet and external adaptor.

Safety equipment includes autonomous emergency braking, lane following and lane keep assist, highway driving assist, intelligent speed limit assist, blind spot monitoring and more.

The PV5 Cargo earned a Platinum safety grading as part of recent ANCAP safety testing, achieving an overall score of 91 per cent.

High-roof and people-mover versions of the PV5 are tipped to arrive later this year, although pricing and an exact ETA are yet to be announced.

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