Internal documents reveal that Kia is planning several variants of the electric PV5 — not one, but two of them will be campers.
While Kia Australia has yet to confirm local availability, the company has expressed strong interest in bringing the PV5 Down Under. If it does, it could offer fleet operators, tradies, and lifestyle buyers an affordable, all-electric alternative with lower running costs.
A platform built for purpose
The PV5 is the first model developed under Kia’s ‘Platform Beyond Vehicle’ (PBV) strategy and is built on a modified version of the E-GMP platform (used in Hyundai’s IONIQ 5N), featuring a flatter rear floor and 400V electrical architecture. Kia has also introduced a ‘Flexible Body System’, allowing for modular roofs, doors, and tailgates to suit different customer needs and applications.
The PV5 measures 4695mm long, 1895mm wide, and 1899mm tall, with a 2995mm wheelbase. It will be offered with three battery sizes: 43.3kWh, 51.5kWh, and 71.2kWh—the largest of which delivers a driving range of up to 400km, exceeding the Ford E-Transit Custom (337km) and rivalling the LDV eDeliver 7 and VW ID. Buzz Cargo.
Power comes from a 120kW/250Nm front-mounted electric motor. Charging from 10–80% reportedly takes around 30 minutes, and Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability is standard across all variants, letting users power tools, appliances, or even camping equipment.
Five core variants, including a full camper
At launch, the PV5 range will include:
- Passenger – A people-mover version featuring configurable three-row seating and a flat floor. Second- and third-row seats can fold, dive, or be removed entirely to create more storage room.
- Cargo Van – Designed for urban deliveries and logistics, with up to 5.1 cubic metres of load space and a low 419mm load floor for easy access. Variants include short and long body styles and a high-roof option.
- Open Bed – A tray-back configuration that targets one-tonne ute buyers needing electric versatility.
- Crew Cab – A two-row layout ideal for work teams or trades that require secure tool and team transport.
- Camper and Light Camper – Developed in partnership with Westfalia, the PV5 camper variant is equipped for long weekends or extended touring. Full details haven’t been revealed, but expect sleeping quarters, storage cabinets, and potentially a pop-up roof or kitchenette. A 5-seat Light Camper version is also on the way.
An off-road-oriented model with a raised ride height and rugged design is in the pipeline, expanding its appeal to adventurers and regional users.
Tech and comfort for work or play
Inside, the PV5 features a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.9-inch infotainment system running Google Android Automotive, with support for business and fleet management apps. Finishes include easy-clean, sustainable fabrics in colours like Dove Gray, Deep Navy, and Terracotta Brown.
A rail system in the cargo van allows quick installation of shelving, cabinetry, or extra seating—offering tremendous flexibility for couriers, mobile workshops, or camper conversions.
Comparison and competition
The PV5 slots between key electric van rivals in size and pricing:
| Model | Starting Price | Max Range (est.) | Load Volume | Power |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kia PV5 | ~€30,000 / ~$A60,000* | 400km | 5.1m³ | 120kW FWD |
| Ford E-Transit Custom | ~€48,000 / ~$A80,000* | 337km | 6.5m³ | 160kW RWD |
| VW ID. Buzz Cargo | ~€46,000 / ~$A77,000* | 431km | 3.9m³ | 150kW RWD |
| LDV eDeliver 7 | ~$A59,990 | 362km | 6.7m³ | 150kW FWD |
*Estimated or based on overseas models
What’s next?
Kia will open pre-orders for the base PV5 Passenger and Cargo models in select markets next month, with deliveries expected to begin in Q3 2025. More variants, including the camper and off-road versions, will be rolled out into 2026. A larger PBV called PV7 is also in development and is expected to debut within two years.
If Kia manages to bring the PV5 to Australia with its competitive pricing intact, it could shake up both the commercial van and lifestyle camper markets—offering electric capability, modular versatility, and modern tech at a price point many ICE rivals can’t match.
