Kia Unveils the Exciting New PV7 Electric Van

Minivans are making a surprising resurgence in the US, and if you look closely, you’ll see more of these spacious vehicles on the roads. Sales jumped by 21 percent in 2025, indicating that the once-uncool minivan is shedding its outdated image and attracting a new crowd, especially as SUV fatigue sets in. I’m all for it.

Kia is one of the brands leading the charge with its Carnival minivan, which has been a hit since its debut in 2021. The company is also among the few automakers venturing into all-electric vans. Recently, Kia unveiled its new PV7 at IAA Transportation in Germany. This model is the second electric van in Kia’s Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) lineup, following the PV5 “people mover” that launched in 2025. The PV7 is about 2 feet longer than the PV5 and comes in two versions: one for passengers and another for cargo.

Kia should definitely consider bringing these innovative electric vans to the US market. If they’re priced competitively—which is likely given Kia’s track record—these vans could really take off. There’s a clear demand for a reasonably priced electric van!

The PBV vans boast impressive technical features. They’re built on Kia’s dedicated PBV architecture (E-GMP.S), which includes a flat-floor design for easy loading and unloading. The PV7 will offer a choice between a 71.5kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt battery or a larger 96.2kWh option. Kia claims the Cargo Long-Range version can achieve 460km (about 285.8 miles) on the generous WLTP cycle, which tends to be more optimistic than EPA estimates. With an 800-volt architecture, it can charge from 10 to 80 percent in under 25 minutes using a 350kW DC fast charger. Plus, it features vehicle-to-load outlets for powering external tools and equipment. The infotainment system runs on Kia’s Android Automotive-based Pleos Connect OS, complete with Gleo AI for natural-language voice controls.

The design of the PV7 is sleek and modern, steering clear of the typical bulkiness associated with vans. The front sports a unique two-tone look with a dark upper section that wraps around the windshield, giving it a visor-like effect. Its upright stance and tall, flat roof suggest a spacious interior ideal for vanlife. The low front bumper and rugged plastic cladding add a practical touch, while both passenger and cargo versions feature eye-catching wheels with a multi-spoke design. It’s stylish without being overly flashy.

While Kia hasn’t confirmed if the PV7 will hit US shores soon, a version has been spotted testing in the country. Officially, the van is set to launch in Europe and Korea in the latter half of 2027, with plans for additional markets and variants to follow.

The PBV concept was introduced at CES 2024, showcasing a family of EVs built on a flexible architecture that allows for various body types. This means the vehicle can transform from a minivan to a full-size van or even a small truck, depending on needs. The driver’s cab remains fixed, while the rest of the vehicle is interchangeable, reminiscent of a real-life building block set.

Kia’s cautious approach to naming the US as a future market is understandable, given our history of making questionable decisions. While the minivan market may not be as booming as the one for lifted trucks, the landscape is shifting. With rising gas prices, an electric van could be just what we need to bridge the gap and bring some harmony back to our roads.