The Kia PV5, an electrification-dedicated purpose-built vehicle (PBV), won the most prestigious award in the global commercial vehicle industry.
Kia said on the 19th (local time) that the PV5 won the 2026 International Van of the Year at Solutrans, a global commercial vehicle expo held in Lyon, France. It is the first time in the 34-year history that a Korean brand has received this award, and also the first among Asian electric light commercial vehicles. The fact that this year's award was decided unanimously by all 26 judges also proves the PV5's competitiveness.
The International Van of the Year is the most prestigious award in the light commercial vehicle industry, organized and selected by IVOTY (International Van of the Year), a nonprofit comprised of specialist journalists on global light commercial vehicles from European countries. It has continued for 34 years since 1992, and awards the vehicle with the most innovative value among light commercial vehicles released that year.
Kia President Song Ho-sung said, "Kia has long sought to lead EV innovation, and the PV5 is a model that extends that ambition into the commercial vehicle space," adding, "In particular, the PV5 is the result of manufacturing innovation as well, such as the combined 'conveyor-cell' production system that enables flexible, multi-variant manufacturing, which makes this award even more meaningful."
He added, "The PV5 being named 'International Van of the Year' at its debut proves that Kia is redefining standards in the global light commercial vehicle market and will open the future of smart and sustainable mobility for business customers worldwide."
Kia analyzed that the award reflects how the Kia DNA—emphasizing the practicality carried over from the Bongo and the Carnival's space utilization and functionality—was applied to the PV5 in a future-oriented way.
The PV5 features a flat floor and spacious interior and cargo areas, and is built by fastening a module (upper body) onto a dedicated skateboard-based platform. Its hallmark is a conversion function that allows users to swap various life modules depending on the purpose—such as ride-hailing, delivery, or utility.
Kia has launched the PV5 Cargo Long and Passenger models in the domestic market and plans to add a variety of new models starting in 2026, including an open bed, Cargo Compact, and Cargo High Roof.
To commemorate the award, Kia will hold the "PV5 purchase review event celebrating the 2026 International Van of the Year win," offering various prizes. It targets customers who take delivery of a PV5 by Dec. 19, and prizes, including PV5-dedicated accessories from Kia Shop, will be awarded to selected top review writers through a drawing.