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By David Lewis | 20 November 2025
Kia’s new fully electric PV5 has been named the 2026 International Van of the Year after its debut in Europe.
Kia received the award at the International Van of the Year Gala in Lyon on 19 November. The judging panel included commercial vehicle journalists from 26 countries, making it one of the most recognised titles in the sector.
The PV5 is Kia’s first dedicated electric van. It launched this year and has already made an impact with businesses looking to switch to cleaner transport. The model available at launch, the PV5 Cargo, has also set a Guinness World Records title for the longest distance driven by an electric van carrying a full load on a single charge.
Jarlath Sweeney, Chair of the International Van of the Year jury, said the PV5 stood out for its innovation, ease of use and practicality. He added that the new model shows how electric vans are becoming more capable for everyday business needs.
Kia leaders said the award highlights their ambition to grow within the commercial vehicle market. They explained that the PV5 was developed by focusing on real business feedback, aiming to create a simple, modern and reliable electric van that can handle a range of jobs.
The award comes at a time when the number of electric vans arriving in Europe is increasing. Seven new models launched in 2025 were considered for the title, showing how quickly the market is shifting toward electric mobility.
The PV5 offers practical electric driving for day-to-day work. Kia says the PV5 can travel up to 258 miles, depending on the version and can recharge from 10 to 80 percent in under half an hour with rapid charging. It has also attracted attention for its world record, covering more than 430 miles in one run while carrying its maximum payload.
The PV5 is the first model from Kia’s Purpose Built Vehicle division, which was created to develop electric vans shaped around business needs. Kia says the team plans to expand the range over the next few years and continue improving practical electric transport for companies across Europe.
The PV5 is now available in Cargo and Passenger versions across Europe. More options, including a Chassis Cab and high roof versions, are due in 2026. Larger models known as the PV7 and PV9 are also in development.
For businesses in Leicester, Loughborough, Hinckley and across the Midlands, the arrival of the PV5 gives local fleets another electric option as companies look to cut running costs and reduce emissions.
