Kia and Motability team up for factory-built wheelchair-accessible PV5

Kia will design and build a wheelchair accessible version of its PV5 van as part of a new agreement with the UK’s Motability Operations.

The partnership will see the Korean car maker introduce factory-built wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAV) before the end of 2026.

Before that, it will supply locally-converted versions of its new all-electric van to the Motability Scheme, helping more drivers switch to electric.

The PV5 WAV was previewed earlier this year but both parties have now confirmed more details of its production.

Both bodies described the latest agreement for a “made-in-plant” WAV as a “major milestone” in making electric motoring more accessible.

In most cases, WAV are converted from passenger models by third-party specialists after leaving the factory. As part of the deal, Kia, with input from Motability Operations, will design, build and supply integrated side-access WAVs directly from its Hwaseong factory, in Korea.

Passenger versions of the PV5 – Kia’s first electric commercial vehicle – will go on sale in early 2026, with locally converted WAV due shortly after. These will be available on the Motability Scheme before the factory-built models arrive later in the year.

The partnership follows Motability Operations’ development of the eVITA concept, which was created to engage car manufacturers about opportunities for accessible design as the industry shifts to electric.

Andrew Miller, CEO of Motability Operations, said: “The eVITA concept demonstrated how inclusive design works if it’s built in from the beginning, and this new memorandum of understanding with Kia shows that vision becoming reality.

“By sharing our customer and WAV market insight with Kia’s innovative design teams, we’re taking the next step in creating a purpose-built electric WAV to protect disabled people’s mobility through the EV transition.”

Motability Operations currently supplies more than 35,000 WAVs to customers via the Motability Scheme and says its work with manufacturers such as Kia aims to ensure these customers are able to access the latest EV technology.

Ho Sung Song, president of Kia, said: “There is no better demonstration of the commitment towards Kia’s vision of ‘sustainable mobility solutions provider’ than the innovative independence that the PV5 WAV offers to those facing mobility challenges.

“The signing of this MOU with Motability Operations reinforces our commitment to leading a future where ‘Mobility for All’ is both sustainable and a basic human right.”

Featuring a side-entry system, a 300kg-rated ramp, a custom wheelchair restraint system, and a third-row tip-up seat for caregivers, Kia says the PV5 WAV will provide greater convenience, comfort and independence for wheelchair users and their families.

Beyond the vehicle itself, Kia and Motability Operations are exploring smart charging solutions that allow customers to automatically charge when tariffs are lowest, helping reduce running costs.