Kia is adding a wheelchair accessible model to its all-new PV5 electric van range in conjunction with UK-based Motability Operations.
Factors such as increased life expectancy and growing elderly populations are leading to a greater requirement for wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs), with transport operators expanding their WAV-related services and changes being made to WAV-related policies in certain markets.
With the continued growth of the sector projected to clash with the planned phasing out of petrol and diesel vehicles that would usually be converted into WAVs, Kia sees an opportunity to lead the way in introducing electric WAV options.
The Kia PV5 WAV features a side-entry system that allows wheelchair users to board safely from the footpath. There’s a third-row tip-up seat, enabling caregivers to assist wheelchair passengers from the side. It will also feature a quick-use, 300kg-rated wheelchair entry ramp and a specially developed wheelchair belt fastening system.
Beyond hardware innovations, the PV5 WAV will also integrate necessary applications for individuals with disabilities, based on the AAOS open software platform.
During an event in February 2025, the company announced its collaboration with Motability Operations, a long-term partner in the Motability Scheme.
Motability is the largest vehicle leasing company in the UK. Users receiving a qualifying disability allowance can choose an affordable and accessible vehicle. The Motability Scheme plays an essential role in connecting disabled customers to work, healthcare, education and independence.
Leveraging its relationship with Motability and enabling Kia to lead in providing customer-centric electric WAVs as a Sustainable Mobility Solutions Provider for humanity, Kia also plans to expand its PBV WAV to additional global regions.
Along with the rest of the PV5 range, the WAV side-entry version will be built in a dedicated new factory in Korea.
More on Motability from our sister site, The Car Expert
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