A new brand and model name has been engraved on the International Van of the Year trophy for 2026. For the first time, Kia with its new PV5 was presented with the most prestigious award in the light commercial vehicle industry.
Twenty six members of the International Van of the Year (IVOTY) jury voted unanimously to elect the PV5 as the new title holder for 2026.
The Kia PV5 is a fully electric modular van design concept, part of the South Korean manufacturer’s new PBV (Platform Beyond Vehicle) model range, built on a dedicated Electric Vehicle skateboard type platform, termed E-GMP.S.
Another newcomer, the Farizon SV from China, finished in second place, with the Ford E-Transit Courier completing the podium positions.
The Volkswagen Transporter and latest Crafter along with the MAN TGE, were shortlisted as were the Ford Transit Connect PHEV and the revised Ford E-Transit.
At the prize presentation at the Solutrans 2025 Gala Banquet at EurExpo in Lyon, Jarlath Sweeney, Chairman, IVOTY congratulated Kia on its inaugural win: “Well done to Kia on winning the 34th International Van of the Year Award for 2026. The PV5 is the first of a batch of new light commercial models due from the Korean brand in the next few years, so we will hear a lot more from Kia in due course. As we know Kia cars have won numerous accolades, now it’s the deserved turn for its new van division. Interestingly, it was another new brand from Asia as in Farizon with its SV model that secured the runner up spot, and we welcome this Geely Group brand into the European market.”
Both Marc Hedrich, President of Kia Europe, as well as Sangdae Kim, Executive Vice President and Head of PBV Division at Kia Corporation were present at the Solutrans Gala event, and on stage to accept the trophy from Jarlath Sweeney.
Marc Hedrich, President & CEO of Kia Europe stated: “While we always believed in the Kia PV5 ever since its launch, we are humbled by its acknowledgement: Earlier this year the PV5 Concept earned Red Dot Design recognition. Just a few weeks ago, we set a Guinness World Record, proving the Kia PV5’s real-world capability and advanced engineering. Winning the prestigious International Van of the Year Award is a true honour and a strong endorsement from some of the most respected journalists in the LCV industry – especially as the first vehicles are just arriving in Europe. Though new to the LCV market, this achievement confirms Kia’s readiness to deliver engineering, design and practicality – strengthening our position as a leading mobility solutions provider. Our sincere thanks go to the IVOTY jurors for this recognition and to all Kia employees for their dedication”.
Sangdae Kim, Executive Vice President and Head of PBV Division at Kia Corporation added: “In 2022, we launched our PBV division with a clear ambition: to redefine the LCV market through innovation, something Kia has always stood for. The Kia PV5 brings that vision to life, and receiving the International Van of the Year Award with our very first PBV model confirms we are heading in the right direction. The PV5 has been developed by actively listening to customer voices, with every detail thoughtfully designed to meet real-world business needs. This award marks an important milestone, yet our journey to deliver meaningful value to customers continues as we expand the PBV lineup.”
