Kia is accelerating its commercial vehicle ambitions by confirming critical technical specifications and market rollout plans for its upcoming medium-to-large electric van, the Kia PV7. Following the rollout of the smaller PV5, the PV7 represents the second dedicated battery-electric model from the manufacturer’s Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) business. It is engineered to challenge established workhorses across Europe and the UK, including the Ford E-Transit Custom and Volkswagen Transporter.
Unlike competitors converted from internal combustion engine platforms, the PV7 is built from the ground up on Hyundai Motor Group’s dedicated E-GMP.S architecture. This born-electric platform gives the PV7 substantial proportions: it measures 5,350 mm in length, 1,995 mm in width, and 1,990 mm in height, with a wheelbase stretching to 3,500 mm. The van will launch in both Cargo and Passenger body styles, forming the base of 23 planned derivatives including chassis cabs and specialist conversions. In Cargo form, load capacity reaches up to 6.1 cubic metres on the standard Long variant and expands to 8.0 cubic metres on the High Roof model. A low 550 mm rear load sill allows the bay to accommodate up to three standard Euro pallets, with maximum payloads rated at up to 1,200 kg.
Under the floor, buyers will get a choice between two nickel-cobalt-manganese (NCM) battery packs: 71.5 kWh and a large 96.2 kWh unit. Front-wheel-drive launch variants are powered by an electric motor producing 200 kW (268 hp) and 420 Nm of torque, with all-wheel drive scheduled to follow later. Kia targets a WLTP range of over 460 km (285 miles) for the Long Range Cargo model, claiming it can cover nearly 248 miles even when fully laden. Crucially, the PV7 incorporates 800-volt electrical hardware supporting up to 350 kW DC ultra-fast charging, enabling a 10% to 80% replenishment in roughly 25 minutes. Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality is also included, allowing operators to run heavy power tools and equipment directly from the traction battery.
UK pricing remains unconfirmed, with official trim levels and list prices set to be published closer to launch. European and UK customer deliveries are scheduled to begin in the second half of 2027.
Verdict: If Kia prices the PV7 aggressively and backs it up with solid fleet dealer support, its 800V fast charging and bespoke EV packaging will give the mainstream European van market a serious run for its money.