Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular – and they are slowly making inroads into the camping sector. With the new Kia PV5, the South Korean manufacturer is launching a versatile electric van on the market, which is available in various versions and could also be suitable as a camper. But would the PV5 really be suitable for camping adventures? We take a closer look at the vehicle.
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Flexible concept – many possibilities
The Kia PV5 is offered in three variants: as a passenger version for passenger transportation, as a cargo version for freight transportation and as a chassis cab, which can be used for individual superstructures. In addition, the PV5 WAV is even offered as a “Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle “. The “Light Camper” version, which has been optimized ex works for leisure use, is particularly exciting for camping fans.
To the individual units: Thanks to the modular design, the interior can be flexibly arranged. In the Passenger version, there is a three-row seat configuration that can be converted into an almost flat surface – ideal for creating a sleeping area. The generous tailgate facilitates access to the storage space, while the two sliding side doors make loading and unloading easier.
A real highlight is the “Flexible Body System”, which enables adaptation to different usage scenarios. Whether as a transporter for camping equipment or as a fully-fledged leisure vehicle – the PV5 is amazingly versatile.
Technology and range – is that enough for camping?
The Kia PV5 is offered with three battery options:
- 51.5 kWh for the basic version
- 71.2 kWh for the long-distance version
- 43.3 kWh for the cargo version
The manufacturer specifies a range of up to 400 kilometers for the Passenger version with a 71.2 kWh battery, making this model suitable for longer distances. Thanks to the quick-charging function, the battery can be charged from 10 to 80 percent within 30 minutes – an important factor for campers who are on the road a lot. However, the question remains as to how well the charging network is developed in rural regions or remote campsites.
The Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function, which allows the vehicle to be used as a mobile power source, is particularly practical for campers. This allows cool boxes, lights or even laptops to be powered directly from the vehicle.
New platform concept and market launch
The Kia PV5 is based on the new Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV), which was specially developed for modular and scalable electric vehicles. The Hyundai subsidiary Kia presented this platform for the first time at the IAA Transportation 2024. The PV5, the first production model based on this new architecture, was finally unveiled in February 2025. Pre-orders for the European market are set to start in the first half of 2025. The price has not yet been set, but it is expected to be lower than that of the VW ID. Buzz, which starts at around 50,000 euros.
The Passenger and Cargo versions will be available at the launch. Other versions are to follow later, including Crew (with special load securing options) and WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle) for barrier-free transportation. A fully-fledged camping version could also be offered in the future.
Camping suitability of electric cars – advantages and challenges
Electric vehicles offer some advantages for camping, but they also have challenges:
Advantages:
- More environmentally friendly and quieter than combustion engines
- Power supply for camping equipment through V2L function
- Lower operating costs (no gasoline/diesel, less maintenance)
Challenges:
- Dependence on the charging infrastructure
- Limited range (especially in cold regions or with additional weight)
- Longer charging times compared to fast refueling
The charging network is constantly improving, especially in Europe, but good planning is required for remote destinations. If you are mainly traveling to parking spaces with charging facilities, you won’t have any major restrictions with an e-camper. However, if you travel off the beaten track a lot, you need to calculate carefully.
Conclusion – Is the Kia PV5 worth it for camping?
The Kia PV5 has many features that make it interesting as a camping vehicle: a flexible space concept, a solid range and the ability to operate electrical devices on the move. The “Light Camper” variant and the “WKNDR” design study in particular show that Kia sees great potential in the camping sector.
Whether the PV5 is the ideal camper for you depends on how you travel. In our opinion, it is an exciting option for shorter trips or campsites with charging facilities. However, if you are planning off-road and freewheeling adventures, want to take as few breaks as possible on long journeys or travel a lot in remote areas, you should consider whether the charging infrastructure and your own patience are sufficient for an electric vehicle.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Can you camp self-sufficiently with the Kia PV5?
Yes, thanks to the V2L function, the PV5 can supply camping devices with power. However, you should consider the range and charging options while on the move.
How far can you get with the Kia PV5 on one charge?
According to the manufacturer, the maximum range is around 400 kilometers with the largest battery in the Passenger version. However, such calculations are generally based on optimum conditions. The range can therefore vary greatly depending on driving style, weather conditions and load.
Is the Kia PV5 available with all-wheel drive?
Not at the moment. The PV5 is equipped with front-wheel drive, which makes it suitable for paved roads and possibly light off-road use, but not for real off-road tours.
Sources:
- https://www.kia.com/de/modelle/pbv/premiere/#/
- https://www.autozeitung.de/kia-pv5-2025-preis-reichweite-207166.html
- https://automobilrevue.ch/neuheiten/kia-pv5-drei-modellversionen-bis-zu-5100-liter-laderaum
- https://www.promobil.de/neuheiten/kia-pv5-wkndr-camper-van-elektro-modular-van/
Pictures: © Kia.com
