Kia’s all-electric PV5 has been named the ‘2026 International Van of the Year’ (IVOTY), marking a historic first victory for both Kia and a Korean manufacturer.
The award was presented on 19 November at the IVOTY Award Gala during SOLUTRANS 2025 in Lyon, France, following a vote by a jury of leading commercial vehicle journalists representing 26 countries.
“Congratulations to Kia for winning the prestigious 34th International Van of the Year Award,” said Jarlath Sweeney, Chairman of the International Van of the Year jury. “The all-electric Kia PV5 sets a new benchmark for innovation, efficiency, and all-round capability in the light commercial vehicle segment. It combines zero-emission performance with versatility and practicality, redefining what businesses can expect from a modern van. Kia has long been celebrated for its award-winning cars, and now, its van division is making an equally powerful impact on the industry.”
In appreciation of this recognition, Ho Sung Song, President & CEO of Kia Corporation, said, “Kia has long stood at the forefront of EV innovation, and the PV5 brings that leadership into the commercial vehicle space with purpose. We developed the PV5 by listening closely to our business customers and by focusing on creating a vehicle that is both highly practical and distinctly Kia in its refined, modern design and functionality. Also, the PV5 brings innovation in the traditional LCV production through our conveyor and cell integrated manufacturing system enabling environmental modification process. To have the PV5 named International Van of the Year in its debut is an exceptional honor. It reinforces our belief that Kia can redefine this segment and continue shaping the future of smart, sustainable and electric mobility for businesses around the world.”
Kia’s all-electric PV5 was listed for consideration alongside six other models launched in 2025, including two other electric vans, further highlighting the growing importance of electrification as the industry accelerates toward a more sustainable future.
Based on Kia’s Electric-Global Modular Platform for Service (E-GMP.S), the PV5 offers up to 258 miles (Cargo L2H1) and 256 miles (Passenger five-seater) of all-electric range (AER, WLTP), with DC charging from 10-to-80% in under 30 minutes and a payload capacity of up to 790 kilogrammes.
Additionally, less than a month since its launch, the PV5 has also already earned a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for “the greatest distance travelled by a light-duty battery-powered electric van with maximum payload on a single charge”, achieving 693.38 kilometres (430.85 miles).
Available now in Cargo (L2H1) and Passenger (five-seater) versions across Europe, the PV5 will be joined from 2026 by new variants, including a Chassis Cab, short-wheelbase Cargo (L1H1), and High Roof (L2H2). The larger PV7 and PV9 are currently in development.
