Kia PV5 high-roof van spotted for the first time — could a refrigerated variant be coming?
In a first for the brand’s future light commercial vehicle lineup, the high-roof variant of Kia’s upcoming PV5 van has been spotted undergoing testing. Until now, only standard-roof versions of the all-electric modular van had been seen, largely in delivery or passenger-focused configurations. The sighting suggests Kia may be preparing a refrigerated or specialised cargo version of the PV5 aimed at the urban logistics and cold chain markets.
Photographs of the prototype show a significantly taller roofline than previous PV5 sightings. Unlike the more streamlined standard versions, this new configuration includes what appears to be a thermal insulation panel on the sidewall and a boxed unit above the cabin — features typically associated with refrigerated transport. The bodywork also appears sealed, with no rear or side windows, suggesting a focus on secure and temperature-controlled cargo.
The PV5 is part of Kia’s forthcoming “Platform Beyond Vehicle” (PBV) strategy — a scalable approach to electric commercial transport based on a modular skateboard chassis. Built on a new dedicated EV platform, the PV5 is expected to offer different body styles for last-mile delivery, ride-hailing, and utility applications. The emergence of a high-roof variant would further extend that versatility, particularly for sectors that require standing room inside the cargo area or temperature control for goods.
Kia has previously confirmed that the PV5 will be launched in 2025, with production set to begin at the company’s dedicated PBV plant in Hwaseong, South Korea. While exact specifications are slowly arriving, we know the vehicle will use an 800V architecture, allowing for ultra-fast charging, and support over-the-air updates and fleet telematics.
A refrigerated PV5 could serve as an electric alternative to current diesel-powered refrigerated vans, which are under increasing regulatory and environmental scrutiny in cities around the world. The zero-emissions drivetrain, combined with potential integration of solar panels or battery-powered refrigeration systems, could make it an attractive option for grocery delivery services, pharmaceuticals, and food distributors looking to decarbonise their fleets.
The emergence of this configuration aligns with Kia’s stated goal of evolving from a traditional automaker into a “mobility solutions provider.” With the PBV platform designed for body-swapping and AI-based fleet management, a temperature-controlled model could be integrated into a broader ecosystem of urban delivery and logistics solutions.
As the van continues testing, more details are likely to emerge about battery range, cooling capabilities, and payload capacity. If confirmed, the PV5 high-roof refrigerated variant could mark a significant step forward for electric commercial transport — and signal Kia’s serious intent to compete in specialist vehicle segments previously dominated by European and Japanese brands.
