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 last night at the IVOTY award gala during Solutrans 2025 in Lyon, France, following a vote by a jury of commercial vehicle journalists representing 26 countries.
The Kia PV5 was listed for consideration alongside six other models launched in 2025, including two other electric vans, further highlighting the growing electrification of the commercial vehicle industry.
Launching in Cargo and Passenger versions, 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. In Ireland, the PV5 Cargo goes on sale next month and will come as standard with a 71.2 kWh long range battery, priced from €33,230 ex-VAT.
Based on Kia’s Electric-Global Modular Platform for Service (E-GMP.S), the PV5 Cargo offers a claimed range of up to 416km, with DC charging from 10 to 80 per cent in under 30 minutes and a payload capacity of up to 790kg.
Additionally, 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.
Commenting on the IVOTY win, Ho Sung Song, president and 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 honour. 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.”
Marc Hedrich, president and CEO of Kia Europe stated: “Winning the prestigious International Van of the Year Award is a true honour and a strong endorsement from some of the most respected journalists in the LCV industry, especially as the first vehicles are just arriving in Europe.
“Though new to the LCV market, this achievement confirms Kia’s readiness to deliver engineering, design, and practicality to strengthen our position as a leading mobility solutions provider. Our sincere thanks go to the IVOTY jurors for this recognition and to all Kia employees for their dedication.”
