Kia said it will begin taking orders on Jan. 28 for the Kia PV5 WAV, designed specifically for wheelchair users; the Kia PV5 Open Bed, a compact commercial model optimized for logistics efficiency; and the Kia PV5 Passenger Donor Model, tailored for vehicle conversions. The photo shows the Kia PV5 WAV. (Photo courtesy of Hyundai Motor–Kia)
SEOUL, Jan. 28 (Korea Bizwire) — Kia on Wednesday began taking orders for three derivative versions of its electric purpose-built vehicle, the PV5, as the automaker moves to expand its push into specialized mobility and commercial transport.
The models are part of Kia’s broader strategy to develop purpose-built vehicles, or PBVs — electric platforms designed for specific uses ranging from passenger transport to logistics and customized business operations.
One of the new variants, the PV5 WAV, is tailored for wheelchair users and marks the first electric vehicle in South Korea to feature a side-entry boarding system.
Unlike conventional modified vehicles that require wheelchair passengers to board from the rear — often forcing them into traffic — the PV5 WAV allows entry directly from the sidewalk.
The model is equipped with a manually operated, two-step in-floor ramp that supports up to 300 kilograms and offers an effective width of 740 millimeters. The ramp’s length can be adjusted depending on boarding conditions.
Kia said the vehicle also includes wheelchair anchoring devices, dedicated safety belts and a seating layout that allows a wheelchair user to travel alongside a companion.
Kia said it will begin taking orders on the 28th for the Kia PV5 WAV, designed specifically for wheelchair users; the Kia PV5 Open Bed, a compact commercial model optimized for logistics efficiency; and the Kia PV5 Passenger Donor Model, tailored for vehicle conversions. The photo shows the Kia PV5 Open Bed. (Courtesy of Hyundai Motor–Kia)
Another variant, the PV5 Open Bed, is aimed at small business owners seeking greater efficiency in delivery and logistics work. Despite its commercial focus, the model includes safety and convenience features comparable to passenger vehicles, such as forward collision-avoidance assist and navigation-based smart cruise control. The cargo bed uses lightweight aluminum panels to improve ease of loading and unloading.
The third version, the PV5 Passenger Donor Model, is designed for conversion specialists. Based on a five-seat passenger configuration, it is delivered without second-row seats or rear luggage boards, allowing modification companies to customize the vehicle more efficiently for business-specific purposes.
“We see PBVs not simply as vehicles, but as platforms,” said Jung Won-jung, head of Kia’s domestic business division. “By offering diverse conversion solutions, we aim to build a sustainable PBV ecosystem.”
The launch underscores Kia’s effort to position itself at the forefront of next-generation mobility, as automakers increasingly look beyond traditional passenger cars toward flexible electric platforms tailored to real-world needs.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
