The 2026 International Van of the Year has been named and it’s a vehicle that is not available in Canada, not yet anyway.

This year’s winner is the recently launched Kia PV5 all-electric van.

This is the first time a Korean automaker has received the IVOTY award. Kia also becomes just the second Asian brand to earn the award.

The awards, established in 1992, recognize vehicles in the light commercial vehicle sector.

“Congratulations to Kia for winning the prestigious 34th International Van of the Year Award,” said Jarlath Sweeney, chairman of the International Van of the Year jury, in a news release.

“The all-electric Kia PV5 sets a new benchmark for innovation, efficiency, and all-round capability in the light commercial vehicle segment. It combines zero-emission performance with versatility and practicality, redefining what businesses can expect from a modern van. Kia has long been celebrated for its award-winning cars, and now, its van division is making an equally powerful impact on the industry.”

“Kia has long stood at the forefront of EV innovation, and the PV5 brings that leadership into the commercial vehicle space with purpose,” said Ho Sung Song, president and CEO of Kia Corporation, in the release.

“We developed the PV5 by listening closely to our business customers and by focusing on creating a vehicle that is both highly practical and distinctly Kia in its refined, modern design and functionality. Moreover, the PV5 brings innovation in the traditional LCV production through our conveyor and cell integrated manufacturing system enabling environmental modification process. To have the PV5 named International Van of the Year in its debut is an exceptional honor. It reinforces our belief that Kia can redefine this segment and continue shaping the future of smart, sustainable and electric mobility for businesses around the world.”

Various media outlets report Kia intends to bring the PV5 to Canada some time in 2026.

The PV5 was built on a flexible platform that offers both cargo and passenger van configurations. Reporting suggests Canada will get the cargo van version only.

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