Kia PV5 Crowned World Van Of The Year

Kia’s electric PV5 is still more than a year away from its Australian launch, yet overseas it is already shaping up as one of the most influential commercial EVs on the market.

The global reception has been so strong that the PV5 has now taken home one of the industry’s most respected titles, the 2026 International Van of the Year award, an accolade that signals its arrival as a major force in the light commercial vehicle segment.

▶️MORE: 2026 Kia PV5: Kia’s First Electric Van Coming to Australia

A Unanimous Win on The World Stage

The award was presented on November 19 in Lyon, France after a unanimous vote by twenty six commercial vehicle journalists from leading global publications.

Since its creation in 1992, the International Van of the Year prize has become the most authoritative benchmark for light commercial vehicles. Each contender is assessed through a detailed evaluation of how effectively it improves real world productivity, advances efficiency, enhances safety and contributes to better environmental performance.

Jarlath Sweeney, Chairman of the IVOTY jury, summed up the industry sentiment clearly. He congratulated Kia and described the PV5 as a new benchmark for the segment, applauding its blend of zero emission performance, versatility and modern functionality. His comment that Kia’s van division is now matching the strength of its passenger car success underscores how significant this moment is for the brand.

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Kia’s First Dedicated Electric Van

The PV5 is no ordinary van. It is the first vehicle in Kia’s new Platform Beyond Vehicle range and is built on an EV architecture created specifically for commercial applications called the Electric Global Modular Platform for Service. This platform allows the PV5 to offer an impressive level of modularity while still delivering competitive range figures.

The long wheelbase cargo version provides up to 416 kilometres of WLTP driving range, while the five seat passenger version offers up to 412 kilometres. Two battery choices are currently available in global markets, a 51.5 kilowatt hour pack for buyers focused on urban logistics and a 71.2 kilowatt hour pack for operators who need extended range capability.

▶️MORE: Electric Vans Available in Australia

Variants Already Expanding in Global Markets

European and South Korean customers can currently purchase the PV5 in long wheelbase, low roof cargo configuration and in a five seat passenger configuration. Kia has already confirmed that three additional versions will join the lineup in 2026 which include a cab chassis, a short wheelbase low roof and a long wheelbase high roof model.

Kia Australia has indicated that passenger, cargo and cab chassis versions will be offered locally once the PV5 lands sometime toward the end of 2026, although the final list of body styles and battery combinations is yet to be confirmed. The overseas expansion suggests Australians may receive a healthy selection.

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Pricing Hints From International Markets

While Australian pricing remains a mystery, the United Kingdom gives a useful guide.

There, the PV5 starts at £27,645 plus VAT which equates to roughly fifty six thousand Australian dollars plus GST. The long range variant lifts the price to £30,145 plus VAT or around sixty one thousand Australian dollars plus GST. Importantly, the PV5 qualifies for the United Kingdom’s full plug in van grant worth five thousand pounds which highlights the type of government support that can accelerate commercial EV adoption.

When is PV5 Coming To Australia?

Kia’s win at the International Van of the Year Awards reinforces what many already suspected. The PV5 is shaping up as one of the most significant electric vans of this decade, combining long range capability with modern cabin design and a versatile platform that can adapt to multiple commercial roles.

Although Australians must wait until late 2026 to get behind the wheel, the global recognition suggests the PV5 will arrive with strong momentum and a growing reputation.

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