Kia has officially opened order books for two new additions to its commercial electric vehicle lineup in the UK: the PV5 Chassis and the PV5 Cargo L2/H2. Built on Hyundai Motor’s dedicated modular skateboard platform, known as E-GMP.S, the PV5 is Kia’s first fully electric van originating from its Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) business. The expansion brings flexible open-bed configurations and a higher-roof cargo layout to the British market.
PV5 Chassis Specifications and Pricing
The newly introduced PV5 Chassis is an open-bed model designed to support custom utility conversions. In the UK, Kia is collaborating with TGS Automotive Group to supply lightweight tipper, Dropside, and Box solutions. Dimensionally, the Chassis model measures 4,610 mm long, 1,895 mm wide, and 1,935 mm tall, featuring a 2,995 mm wheelbase and a tight 5.5-meter turning radius.
Exclusively equipped with a long-range 71.2 kWh battery in the UK, the PV5 Chassis delivers a potential WLTP range of up to 258 miles (416 km). The vehicle supports DC fast charging up to 120 kW, allowing a 10% to 80% charge replenishment in approximately 30 minutes. An 11 kW AC supply requires about 6 hours and 30 minutes to charge from 10% to 100%.
Payload capacities vary by build, with the Dropside offering up to 633 kg and the Tipper capable of carrying 561 kg. Inside, the cabin seats two and comes fitted with a 12.9-inch navigation screen, a 7.5-inch driver display, and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
On-the-road UK pricing, inclusive of the expected £5,000 Zero Emission Van Grant (ZEVG), begins at £32,916 for the base PV5 Chassis ‘Plus’ LR. The TGS-converted PV5 Dropside starts at £40,110, while the PV5 Tipper starts at £41,310.
PV5 Cargo L2/H2 Dimensions and Capacity
Alongside the Chassis, Kia launched the larger PV5 Cargo L2/H2 variant. This version measures 4,695 mm long, 1,895 mm wide, and 2,200 mm high, maintaining the same 2,995 mm wheelbase. The taller roof creates an internal cargo height of 1,815 mm and an expanded load volume of 5.2 cubic meters.
The Cargo L2/H2 is available in three- and four-door configurations accommodating two or three seats. Three-door variants offer a maximum payload of up to 630 kg, whereas four-door models feature dual sliding doors and support payloads up to 600 kg. All variants offer a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 kg.
Powered by the same 71.2 kWh battery pack, the Cargo L2/H2 delivers a WLTP range of up to 239 miles. On-the-road pricing for the base Cargo L2/H2 ‘Essential’ two-seat model starts at £35,016, including the £5,000 ZEVG incentive.
Why It Matters for European Buyers
The introduction of specialized variants like the PV5 Chassis and high-roof Cargo L2/H2 provides European commercial fleet operators and independent tradespeople with flexible, factory-backed electrification options. By integrating bespoke conversions directly through regional partners like TGS Automotive Group and utilizing a dedicated EV skateboard architecture, Kia addresses practical utility demands while expanding zero-emission light commercial vehicle choices across European markets.
Practical Takeaway
UK buyers can now order the PV5 Chassis and PV5 Cargo L2/H2 through Kia’s network. Fleet operators should review payload limits—ranging from 561 kg for the Tipper to 633 kg for the Dropside—and ensure charging infrastructure matches the 120 kW DC and 11 kW AC capabilities before committing to specific trims.
Source: Original report