Introducing Kia’s First Fully Electric Light Commercial Chassis Cab
Kia has stepped onto the European stage at SOLUTRANS 2025 in Lyon, France, revealing the PV5 Chassis Cab, its first fully electric cab chassis model designed to reshape the light commercial vehicle landscape. This debut aligns with Kia’s Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) strategy, focusing on electric performance combined with modular versatility suited for a variety of professional applications across Europe.
Built on the innovative E-GMP.S (Electric-Global Modular Platform for Service), the PV5 was engineered from the ground up to maximize electrification benefits, operational efficiency, and adaptable body configurations. Despite its compact dimensions—measuring under 5 meters—the PV5 delivers an impressive payload capacity of up to 1,005 kg and offers up to 8 m³ of volumetric space in a high-roof box configuration. These specs put it on par with larger vans in the segment D category, while maintaining agile city maneuverability with a turning radius of just 5.5 meters.
Versatile and Customizable for Diverse Business Needs
The PV5 Chassis Cab stands out through its ability to be tailored, thanks to close collaboration with European coachbuilders. It accepts a wide array of conversions to suit different professional demands, such as:
- Open box for construction or agricultural machinery transport
- Tipper body suited for municipal waste collection
- Various enclosed van versions to support e-commerce logistics
- Refrigerated vans for grocery delivery
This adaptability makes the PV5 a versatile platform that aligns with the evolving needs of commercial operators seeking electric alternatives without compromising payload or practicality.
Practical Features and Performance
Powering the PV5 are two battery options: a 51.5 kWh battery available at launch and a longer-range 71.2 kWh pack slated for 2026, ensuring range flexibility depending on the configuration. For instance, the recently released L2H1 Cargo model can achieve up to 297 km on the standard battery and extends to 416 km with the higher capacity (WLTP ratings). Charging capabilities are competitive, offering DC fast charging at up to 150 kW, trimming charging time from 10% to 80% to around 30 minutes — perfect for reducing downtime in busy logistics operations. AC charging with 22 kW will also be introduced to complement existing options.
The vehicle’s safety framework includes a robust dual-ring steel exoskeleton and rear underrun protection device (RUPD), combined with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane-following assistance with hand detection, lane keeping assist, and speed limit recognition. These features elevate both driver safety and operational ease, critical for professional use in urban and mixed driving conditions.
A reassuring seven-year or 150,000 km warranty extends to 260,000 km optionally, with batteries covered separately for eight years, underscoring Kia’s confidence in the PV5’s durability and reliability.
Kia Business Solutions Ecosystem: Streamlining Fleet Operations
Alongside the PV5, Kia introduced its Business Solutions Ecosystem, a comprehensive suite designed to simplify fleet management, boost operational efficiency, and accelerate the shift towards electric mobility for businesses.
This ecosystem integrates services spanning four core pillars:
- DRIVE: Featuring Kia’s Android-based infotainment system with smart AI assistance, over-the-air software updates, live map data, and a PLEOS App Market for business-specific apps. Drivers benefit from a user-friendly 12.9-inch touchscreen for seamless control and connectivity.
- CHARGE: Offering access to over a million charging points across 30+ European countries, including public DC, AC, and high-power stations. A flexible subscription model and home or fleet base charging solutions ensure smooth energy replenishment.
- CONNECT: Kia Connect Fleet and Fleet API provide a pan-European, multi-brand fleet management platform without extra hardware. This includes tools for administration, reporting, route planning, maintenance tracking, and compliance monitoring. Operators gain full visibility into vehicle health, location, and usage data via the secure platform.
- WORK: A unified portal consolidates user and vehicle management, coupled with strong data privacy and security measures. Even fleets with non-connected vehicles can benefit from optional telematics devices, ensuring comprehensive oversight.
Enhancing Fleet Flexibility
Kia Drive for Business makes fleet expansion and operation a breeze by allowing companies to rent vehicles online or via dealers, offering daily rentals for demand surges or flexible monthly plans as alternatives to leasing. With 150+ locations in eight European markets, fleet managers can scale their operations swiftly.
Table: Key Specs and Features of the Kia PV5 Chassis Cab
| Προδιαγραφή | Λεπτομέρειες |
|---|---|
| Πλατφόρμα | E-GMP.S (Modular Electric Platform for Service) |
| Length | Under 5 meters |
| Payload Capacity | Up to 1,005 kg |
| Volume (Cargo Space) | Up to 8 m³ (with high roof) |
| Turning Radius | 5.5 meters |
| Battery Options | 51.5 kWh (launch), 71.2 kWh (2026) |
| Range (WLTP) | 297 km (standard battery), 416 km (large battery) |
| Charging | DC Fast Charging 150 kW, AC Charging 22 kW (future) |
| Warranty | 7 years / 150,000 km (extendable), Battery 8 years |
| Safety Features | Dual ring steel exoskeleton, RUPD, ADAS suite |
What This Means for Logistics and Transport
The arrival of the PV5 and Kia’s Business Solutions Ecosystem signals a clear step forward in integrating electric powertrains with flexible fleet management—key factors for modern logistics. The vehicle’s compact footprint combined with competitive payload and range addresses the growing demand for urban last-mile delivery vehicles that reduce emissions without sacrificing capacity.
Meanwhile, the connected ecosystem streamlines dispatch, vehicle monitoring, and charging infrastructure, fundamentally tackling common headaches such as downtime and range anxiety. For logistics providers, these advances translate into smoother operations, cost savings, and an enhanced ability to meet evolving sustainability goals.
Taking the Wheel on Tomorrow’s Transport
The setup of the PV5 as a modular canvas—already demonstrated through applications like converted food trucks—and the embrace of digital fleet management solutions highlight Kia’s commitment to forward-thinking mobility. It’s a classic case of “meeting a boat at the shore”: anticipating shifting demands and unlocking new operational efficiencies.
Why User Experience and Solid Feedback Matter
While detailed specs and expert reviews shed light on the PV5’s potential, nothing quite beats getting behind the wheel or hands-on with a fleet’s operations to fully grasp the impact. Practical use reveals the nuances that manuals might miss—from daily handling to real-world range and after-sales support.
That’s where platforms like GetTransport.com shine, offering access to a broad spectrum of transport options worldwide at competitive rates. Whether you’re moving an office, delivering large bulky goods, or relocating vehicles, their versatility caters to all logistics needs. By providing transparent pricing and an easy booking experience, users can confidently choose the best fit for their shipment or haulage tasks without risk or overspending.
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Looking Ahead: What This Means for Global Logistics
Though the PV5’s immediate impact may resonate strongest across European urban and regional fleets, the broader influence of electrified, connected commercial vehicles is unmistakable in the global logistics arena. Efficiencies gained here set standards others will follow, pushing the freight and shipping sectors towards cleaner, smarter solutions.
GetTransport.com remains vigilant in tracking these developments, ensuring the solutions offered keep pace with innovations and the evolving transport landscape. Start planning your next delivery and secure your cargo with GetTransport.com.
Περίληψη
Kia’s unveiling of the PV5 Chassis Cab at SOLUTRANS 2025 introduces a nimble yet capable fully electric commercial platform tailored for European professional markets. Its modular design supports an array of conversions, meeting demands from construction to e-commerce deliveries, while offering competitive range and rapid charging times. Coupled with the comprehensive Kia Business Solutions Ecosystem, encompassing connectivity, charging access, fleet management, and rental flexibility, this launch sets a new benchmark in electric vehicle logistics.
For logistics and freight companies navigating the drive towards sustainability, vehicles like the PV5, supported by digital ecosystems, embody the future of urban freight, distribution, and service transport. Platforms like GetTransport.com help bridge the gap from innovation to real-world utility by linking shippers with affordable, versatile, and reliable transport options globally—covering everything from parcel and pallet shipments to bulky and container moves. This ease of access and transparency streamlines the complex dance of logistics, ensuring shipments arrive on time and on budget.
Kia Introduces the PV5 Electric Chassis Cab and Business Solutions Ecosystem, Targeting European Commercial Fleets">