Kia Van Guide
Kia is one of the newest manufacturers to enter the British commercial vehicle market, launching its first purpose-built electric van in 2025. Rather than adapting an existing diesel vehicle, the South Korean manufacturer has developed an entirely new electric platform designed around the needs of businesses, delivery operators and specialist vehicle conversions.
The PV5 Cargo is the first model in Kia's ambitious Platform Beyond Vehicle programme, combining distinctive styling, a particularly spacious load compartment and competitive electric range. Smaller and larger body configurations are being introduced as the range develops, while Kia's established warranty package and dedicated commercial vehicle dealer network provide reassurance for businesses considering the move to electric propulsion.
Current Models
Commercial van prices exclude VAT unless otherwise stated. Dimensions are length × width × height in millimetres, excluding mirrors. Cargo volumes refer to standard panel vans unless otherwise stated.
Kia PV5 Cargo (25-) | RRP From: £27,355 + VAT (before £5,000 UK Government grant) |
The PV5 Cargo arrived in Britain in late 2025, marking Kia's entry into the light commercial vehicle market. The original L2H1 model measures just 4695mm in length, yet offers an impressive 4.4 cubic metres of cargo space. Its particularly square load compartment provides a 2255mm load floor, while the 1330mm between the wheel arches allows two Euro pallets to be accommodated. A loading height of just 419mm is another major advantage, particularly for businesses handling heavy or awkward items.
For the 2027 model year, Kia introduced the shorter L1H1 version, reducing overall length by 200mm while retaining a generous four cubic metres of load space. This makes it particularly interesting for urban delivery work, where manoeuvrability can be just as important as carrying capacity. The smaller model also offers the highest payload in the range, reaching 800kg in its lightest specification.
Two battery capacities are available. The Standard Range model uses a 51.5kWh battery and an 89kW electric motor producing approximately 120bhp. The Long Range version combines a larger 71.2kWh battery with a more powerful 161bhp motor, offering up to 258 miles of WLTP combined range. Both drive the front wheels and offer smooth, quiet acceleration particularly suited to stop-start urban driving.
Kia has also focused heavily on the practical requirements of commercial operators. The PV5 Cargo can be specified with one or two sliding side doors, while the latest longer versions offer a choice of two or three front seats. The upright cabin provides good visibility, and the modern dashboard includes a 7.5-inch digital instrument display and 12.9-inch touchscreen.
Pricing is another significant attraction. The latest L1H1 starts at £27,355 excluding VAT before the UK Government's £5000 Zero-Emission Van Grant, which reduces its on-the-road price to £29,016 including VAT. Kia also provides a seven-year/100,000-mile vehicle warranty and eight-year/100,000-mile high-voltage battery cover. Combined with its distinctive design, unusually generous load compartment and growing range of commercial configurations, the PV5 Cargo represents one of the most interesting new arrivals in Britain's electric van market.
Specifications, dimensions and prices were correct at the time of the latest update. Recommended retail prices are official UK list prices, while pre-registered and used values are approximate UK market figures and may vary depending on specification, mileage, condition and location. Recommended retail prices include any applicable UK Government electric vehicle grant where available unless explicitly stated otherwise, but exclude dealer discounts, manufacturer incentives and other retail offers.
Dimensions quote vehicle width excluding exterior mirrors unless otherwise stated. Power outputs are quoted in bhp, with manufacturers' kW, PS or CV figures converted where necessary. Electric driving ranges use WLTP combined figures where available.
Unless otherwise stated, vehicle images are manufacturer press photographs provided by Kia and remain the copyright of their respective owners.