Kia has revealed its new electric Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (eWAV), the PV5 WAV, at the Financial Times’ Future of the Car Summit in London. The debut, made in collaboration with UK-based Motability Operations Ltd, highlights Kia’s continued efforts to enhance mobility for people with disabilities and its broader commitment as a provider of sustainable mobility solutions.
The PV5 WAV is part of Kia’s evolving Purpose-Built Vehicle (PBV) strategy and responds to the growing global need for accessible transportation. As populations age and demand for accessible mobility rises, the need for purpose-designed WAVs is increasing—especially as traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, commonly used for conversions, are phased out. The shift to electric WAVs is becoming a critical solution.
Kia has a decade-long track record of improving mobility access. Since 2012, the company has supported various initiatives, including the “Green Trip” project in South Korea, which focused on improving travel options for people with disabilities. In 2021, Kia expanded its reach by launching a mobility pilot in Los Angeles, offering ride-hailing services tailored to individuals with special mobility needs.
A WAV Designed for Real-World Accessibility
The PV5 WAV is designed not just for wheelchair users, but also for their families, caregivers, and professional drivers. The vehicle features a side-entry system for safe sidewalk access, a third-row tip-up seat for caregiver support, and a high-capacity (300 kg) wheelchair ramp. A specially developed belt-fastening system ensures safe and easy wheelchair securing.
Built at Kia’s Hwaseong EVO Plant in Korea, the vehicle is produced using the brand’s Made-In-Plant manufacturing system. This approach focuses on ecological sustainability and reducing accessibility barriers during production.
In addition to physical features, the PV5 WAV will incorporate user-friendly digital applications through the AAOS open software platform, ensuring a more integrated mobility experience for users with disabilities.
Expanding Reach Through Strategic Partnerships
Kia’s work with Motability Operations reinforces its long-term commitment to inclusive mobility. Motability is the UK’s largest vehicle leasing organisation for disabled individuals. Through its Motability Scheme, eligible users can access affordable and specially adapted vehicles—connecting them to jobs, education, healthcare, and greater independence.
Kia’s PV5 WAV is a key example of how electric mobility can be inclusive, practical, and future-ready.
