Kia PV5 Wins International Van of the Year

A Look at What This Means for Australian Fleets and How VQuip Is Ready With Compatible Shelving

The all-electric Kia PV5 has officially been awarded the 2026 International Van of the Year (IVOTY) title, one of the most respected awards in the global commercial vehicle sector. The announcement was made at the IVOTY gala during the SOLUTRANS 2025 event in Lyon, France, following a unanimous vote by 26 commercial vehicle journalists (Source: Kia Global Newsroom: https://www.kia.com/ie/about-kia/news-and-events/kia-pv5-wins-international-van-of-the-year/).

This award confirms that electric commercial vehicles have reached a point where practicality, capability and fleet readiness now match or exceed traditional diesel vans.

Key Facts About the Kia PV5

Built on a dedicated electric platform

The PV5 is built on Kia’s new E-GMP S platform, part of its PBV (Platform Beyond Vehicle) program, designed specifically for commercial applications. This makes it Kia’s first fully electric light commercial vehicle.
(Source: Kia Global Newsroom: https://www.kia.com/ie/about-kia/news-and-events/kia-pv5-wins-international-van-of-the-year/)

All-electric range up to 416 km

Kia states that the Cargo Long Wheelbase variant achieves a WLTP range of up to 416 kilometres on a single charge.
(Source: Kia Global Newsroom: https://www.kia.com/ie/about-kia/news-and-events/kia-pv5-wins-international-van-of-the-year/)

Two battery options

The PV5 will be offered with at least two battery capacities in Europe: 51.5 kWh and 71.2 kWh, depending on model grade.
(Source: Kia Europe PV5 Product Page: https://www.kia.com/eu/pbv/vehicles/pv5-passenger/discover/)

Payload capacity up to 790 kg

Official specifications list a payload of up to 790 kg, depending on configuration.
(Source: Kia Global Newsroom: https://www.kia.com/ie/about-kia/news-and-events/kia-pv5-wins-international-van-of-the-year/)

Expected Australian arrival

The Driven reports that Kia is preparing for a 2026 Australian market introduction with cargo, passenger and possible cab-chassis variants.
(Source: The Driven: https://thedriven.io/2025/11/21/kias-electric-pv5-wins-world-van-of-the-year-award/)

What This Means for Australian Fleets

The PV5 arrives at a time when Australian operators are rapidly exploring electrification. Businesses are aiming to reduce emissions, meet ESG targets and benefit from lower servicing and running costs.

With purpose-built EV architecture, a strong range, modular body options and fleet-ready safety features, the PV5 positions itself as a leading option for trades, service technicians and national fleets.

VQuip Already Has Compatible Shelving Systems Ready

VQuip has already developed shelving solutions that are designed to be compatible with modern electric van platforms including vehicles similar in size and architecture to the PV5.

Our systems offer:

• Crash testing to ADR 42/04
• Lightweight construction to preserve payload
• Modular configuration options
• Full Australian design and manufacture
• Mounting systems suitable for EV-friendly floor structures

As soon as Kia confirms the final Australian PV5 specifications, our engineering and fit-out teams will complete final dimensional verification to ensure full compatibility for fleet rollouts.

This ensures that early adopters of the PV5 can receive high quality fit-outs immediately upon delivery.

Preparing for the Electric Fit-Out Future

Electric vans change the dynamics of interior design. Battery placement, floor structure, ride characteristics and load distribution all benefit from a purpose-built shelving system.

By planning early with VQuip you can ensure seamless integration of:

• Shelving
• Drawers
• Storage modules
• Safety equipment
• Technician workflow optimisation

Final Thoughts

The Kia PV5 earning the 2026 International Van of the Year award marks a major milestone in the shift to electric commercial vehicles. With strong range, a dedicated commercial EV platform and global recognition, it is positioned to become a popular choice for Australian fleets.

VQuip is already prepared with compatible shelving systems that align with the PV5’s architecture.

Photo Credit: Kia PV5 wins International Van of the Year 2026