Recognized for its technological innovation, operational efficiency, advanced safety
Corporation’s all-electric PV5 has been awarded the ‘2026 International Van of the Year’ (IVOTY), becoming the first Korean vehicle — and Asia’s first electric van — to receive the industry’s highest global honor.
The recognition, presented at SOLUTRANS 2025 in Lyon, France, follows a unanimous vote by 26 leading commercial vehicle journalists worldwide.
Established in 1992, IVOTY is the most authoritative global award in the light commercial vehicle (LCV) sector. Winners are selected based on technological innovation, operational efficiency, safety and environmental performance
The PV5 outperformed six other finalists, marking only the second time an Asian brand has secured this honor in the award’s 34-year history.
Powerful impact
“Kia has long been celebrated for its award-winning cars, and now, its van division is making an equally powerful impact on the industry,” remarked Jarlath Sweeney, Chairman of the International Van of the Year Jury.
The PV5 builds on Kia’s established electric vehicle (EV) momentum — demonstrated by the EV6 and EV9 winning World Car of the Year titles. With its debut, Kia expands its vision for sustainable mobility into the commercial sector.
“To have the PV5 named International Van of the Year in its debut is an exceptional honor. It reinforces our belief that Kia can redefine this segment and continue shaping the future of smart, sustainable and electric mobility for businesses around the world,” commented Ho Sung Song, President & CEO, Kia Corporation.
Development process
The PV5 was shaped through a development process rooted in extensive customer insight. Kia worked closely with logistics firms, delivery operators, fleet managers and mobility service providers to ensure the vehicle meets real-world needs, from ergonomics and loading efficiency to digital uptime tools and serviceability.
“This award marks an important milestone, yet our journey to deliver meaningful value to customers continues as we expand the PBV line-up,” asserted Sangdae Kim, Executive Vice President and Head of PBV Division, Kia Corporation.
