The Kia PV5 has received the titles of ‘Best Electric Van’ and ‘Van of the Year’ at the 2026 Parkers Van and Pickup Awards. This marks the PV5’s first win at these awards and represents a strong start for Kia in the electric Light Commercial Vehicle (eLCV) market.
The Parkers Van and Pickup Awards are held annually to recognize the importance of commercial vehicles in the UK. Experts from Parkers review the vehicles and select the winners.
Tom Webster, Vans Editor at Parkers, stated, “The Kia PV5 would be a great van even if it were made by a well-known brand. It’s impressive that it comes from a company with a relatively short history in this market. The PV5 is enjoyable to drive, has a comfortable cabin, and offers excellent value, costing less than many smaller diesel vans, which are usually the first choice for new van buyers owners.”
He added, “The pricing of the PV5 has garnered attention in the industry. This is Kia’s first attempt in this segment, and it has made a significant impact, with more models expected.”
Paul Philpott, President and CEO of Kia UK Limited, expressed his excitement, saying, “We are delighted to add two awards to the PV5’s collection. This double success highlights the practical and attractive nature of our first electric van and sets a high benchmark for our future electric commercial vehicles, which will be available through our new network of dealers specialising in commercial vehicles.”
The PV5 establishes new standards for performance, capability, and flexibility in the competitive e-LCV sector, illustrating Kia’s increasing commitment to electric vehicles. After securing The Sun’s ‘Van of the Year’ at the 2025 News UK Motor Awards, the PV5 continues to earn praise for its versatility and innovation, redefining what modern vans can be.
Currently, the PV5 is offered as an L2H1 Cargo or a five-seater Passenger model. More versions of the PV5, including larger and smaller Cargo configurations as well as six- and seven-seat Passenger models, will be available next year. Kia also plans to introduce the PV7 in 2027 and the PV9 in 2029.
Orders for the Kia PV5 Cargo and Passenger models can be placed now through Kia’s new PBV Centre network, with deliveries expected by the end of the year.
Key Points…
- Kia PV5 Wins Multiple Awards in 2026: The Kia PV5 was named ‘Best Electric Van’ and ‘Van of the Year’ at the 2026 Parkers Van and Pickup Awards, marking Kia’s debut win in the eLCV market.
- Recognition of the Kia PV5’s Value and Performance: Experts praise the PV5 for its enjoyable drive, comfortable cabin, attractive pricing, and impressive entry into the electric van segment, even coming from a relatively new market player.
- Industry Impact and Market Reception: The PV5’s competitive pricing and strong performance have made a significant industry impact, with expectations for more models to join this segment.
- Kia’s Leadership and Future Plans for Electric Commercial Vehicles: Kia UK CEO Paul Philpott highlighted the awards as a testament to the PV5’s practicality and the company’s commitment to expanding its electric commercial vehicle lineup.
- Versatility and Future Variants of the Kia PV5: Currently available in cargo and five-seater passenger versions, the PV5 will expand to include larger, smaller, and six- or seven-seat models, with future plans for PV7 and PV9 models.
