Kia’s new PV5 electric van has set a Guinness World Record after traveling more than 430 miles (692 km) on a single charge while fully loaded, underscoring the South Korean automaker’s growing lead in electric vehicle (EV) efficiency and range performance.
The van, equipped with a 71 kWh battery, completed the distance on a test route designed to replicate real-world delivery driving conditions, combining city and highway segments. Despite carrying a payload of nearly 1,500 pounds, the PV5 maintained an energy consumption rate of about 11 kWh per 100 km, or 17.7 kWh per 100 miles — a figure comparable to that of smaller passenger EVs such as the Tesla Model 3.
According to Kia, “the PV5 only lost about 1.5% of its range for every additional 100 kg (220 pounds) of cargo weight,” suggesting strong efficiency retention under load. The test lasted over 22 hours and was conducted by a professional reviewer alongside a Kia development engineer to ensure consistent driving conditions and verification standards.
The PV5’s charging and battery durability performance further highlight Kia’s progress in EV technology. The vehicle can charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes using DC fast charging, and the company points to recent independent studies indicating that its batteries retain more capacity over time compared with Tesla’s.
Expected to launch in 2026, the Kia PV5 cargo variant will start at around $37,000 in the United States. The model is built on Hyundai Motor Group’s new modular platform for electric service vehicles and will also be available in passenger and mobility-assistance configurations.
Source: KIA