Summary
- Kia unveiled an electric camper van at SEMA based on the PV5, showcasing potential for a recreational EV
- Production of the PV5 and its variants is scheduled for 2025
- The Kia PV5 WKNDR concept includes a winch-equipped front bumper, solar panels, a pop-up camper attachment, and modular storage system for off-grid trips
- Built on the PBV platform, the PV5 WKNDR concept is part of a line of flexible electric vans for various uses, such as recreation
- Kia has a dedicated factory in South Korea to start production in 2025 with an annual capacity of 150,000 units, aiming to use these electric vans for future EV plans including robotaxis
Article
At the annual SEMA show in Las Vegas, Kia unveiled an electric camper van called the WKNDR, based on the PV5 concept. The WKNDR is part of a series of Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) concepts that Kia introduced earlier in the year, showcasing a line of flexible electric vans for commercial use. However, the PV5 WKNDR is specifically designed for recreational use, with features such as off-road tires, a winch-equipped front bumper, and a pop-up camper attachment. Solar panels and an onboard air compressor provide self-sufficiency for off-grid trips, and a modular storage system allows for secure and easy access to supplies and equipment.
The Kia PV5 WKNDR concept offers a unique approach to electric vehicle design, departing from the traditional skateboard platform used in current EVs. Instead, the PV5 and other PBV concepts feature interchangeable upper bodies that can be easily attached to the chassis using magnetic couplings. This allows the same vehicle to serve different roles, switching from a taxi during the day to a delivery van at night, and transforming into a recreational vehicle like the WKNDR over the weekends. Kia has established a dedicated factory in South Korea for its PBV business, with production set to begin in 2025 and an annual capacity target of 150,000 units.
The PV5 electric van and its variants are part of Kia’s future EV strategy, with camouflaged prototypes already spotted testing on the roads. Kia sees these electric vans as key products for its EV push and potential candidates for robotaxi use if autonomous-driving technology advances. The PV5 WKNDR concept showcases the versatility and innovative approach that Kia is taking towards electric mobility, offering customers a flexible and sustainable option for recreational and commercial use. With features like the built-in solar panels and modular storage system, the WKNDR highlights Kia’s commitment to providing environmentally friendly and practical electric vehicles for various applications.
By previewing the PV5 WKNDR at SEMA, Kia is introducing a new perspective on electric vehicles, combining adventure-ready features with the sustainable benefits of EV technology. The concept’s off-road capabilities, pop-up camper attachment, and onboard air compressor cater to outdoor enthusiasts looking for a reliable and eco-friendly way to explore the great outdoors. With production slated for 2025, Kia is positioning itself as a major player in the electric vehicle market, offering a range of PBV concepts that can adapt to different use cases and serve as a foundation for future mobility solutions. The PV5 WKNDR concept represents a glimpse into the future of electric mobility, where flexibility, sustainability, and innovation come together to create a new generation of electric vehicles.
The Kia PV5 WKNDR concept is a bold step towards redefining the electric vehicle landscape, with its focus on adaptability, sustainability, and versatility. By introducing a modular design that allows for different upper body configurations, Kia is paving the way for a new era of electric mobility that can cater to various needs and applications. The WKNDR’s off-grid capabilities, solar power integration, and innovative storage solutions showcase Kia’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of EV technology and providing customers with practical and efficient electric vehicles. With the PV5 and other PBV concepts, Kia is poised to revolutionize the electric vehicle market and set new standards for sustainable and flexible mobility solutions.
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