On Tuesday, Kia unveiled the exterior design of its first purpose-built vehicle (PBV), the Kia PV5. Kia defined PBVs as “platform beyond vehicles” last year’s Investor Day and set a target to sell 250,000 units by 20230. Positioning PBVs as a crucial part of the company’s future strategy.
The PV5 was first showcased as a concept at CES 2024 last January and was developed to deliver an efficient vehicle experience through customized design. The production model will be officially revealed at the 2025 Kia EV Day later this month and will be the mid-sized offering in Kia’s dedicated PBV lineup.
Kia plans to offer the PV5 in three variants: a passenger model for diverse applications, a cargo model optimized for business use, and a conversion model adaptable to various customer needs. The newly revealed designs focus on the passenger and cargo versions.
Staying true to its concept, the PV5 boasts a futuristic yet robust design. It combines clean, intuitive elements to emphasize sturdiness and boldness. The front end showcases Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy, contrasting a sleek upper section with bold lower details. A standout feature is the star-map signature lighting extending from the A-pillar. It is complemented by headlights set against a black body, creating a unique aesthetic rarely seen in conventional vehicles.
The vehicle’s edges feature partially replaceable lower bumpers, balancing practicality with durability. The side profile exudes strength through the harmonious integration of wheel arch cladding and side rocker design.
The passenger model emphasizes openness with large glass panels along a low beltline. Black trim on the D-pillar creates a seamless flow from side windows to the rear. The rear design prioritizes simplicity and functionality, maximizing perceived space. A replaceable lower rear bumper adds to the vehicle’s practicality and cost-effectiveness.
The cargo model is tailored for business use. It features dual swing doors at the rear for easy loading and unloading in tight spaces. This design maximizes utility while distinguishing itself from traditional commercial vehicles.
Karim Habib, Kia’s Global Design Chief, stated that the PV5 embodies Kia’s design philosophy by offering innovative solutions tailored to customer needs. He highlighted that the shared design elements across all variants emphasize the PV5’s robustness, boldness, and versatility.
Kia will reveal more details about the PV5’s features and broader PBV business strategy at the upcoming event in Tarragona, Spain.
