Kia Electric Van World Record
Kia has set a world record for the PV5 Cargo electric van, covering over 430 miles on a single charge. This result was achieved in real-world conditions, making it even more impressive.
Key Record Details
Achievement Context
Diesel car sales are declining, but diesel remains popular among truck operators due to its durability, efficiency, and long range. However, electric technology is gradually changing this trend.
The new Kia PV5 Cargo electric van covered 430.84 miles (693.38 km) on a single charge, significantly exceeding the officially stated range of 258 miles. This is especially impressive considering the vehicle’s shape and the fact that it was carrying the maximum payload.
This was not a laboratory test or a fuel-saving experiment. It was a real endurance test conducted in Germany under conditions that any cargo vehicle might encounter.
Participants and Route
At the wheel of the van were journalist George Barrow and engineer Christian Nigermaier. They completed 12 laps of a route with a total length of 36.2 miles, featuring traffic lights, roundabouts, and elevation changes.
Technical Features
The record-breaking PV5 had a standard configuration but was equipped with a 71.2 kWh battery. A version with a smaller 51.5 kWh battery is also available, offering less range and acceleration.
Platform Future
The PV5 is the first representative of the Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) family from Kia, built on the E-GMP.S architecture. It offers modularity and can be used as a panel van, chassis, or minivan.
This record demonstrates that electric commercial vehicles can be a practical alternative to traditional models, even under demanding conditions. With the development of technology, similar results may become the industry standard, contributing to reduced emissions and fuel cost savings.