Embracing the Future with Kia PV5 WAV - A Game-Changer in Wheelchair Accessible EVs

Abu Dhabi : The project is designed to make it easier for people with disabilities to move around. It also highlights the company's leadership in creating eco-friendly mobility solutions.

• The new KIA PV5 WAV was showcased at the Future of the Car Summit hosted by the Financial Times, in partnership with Motability Operations Ltd. 
• The PBV WAV has been designed to make the most of electric vehicle technology, helping wheelchair users, caregivers, and drivers. 
• The PV5 features a third-row seat that tips up, a side-entry system, and curb-side access to improve safety and ease of use. 

Kia Corporation recently introduced its PV5 WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle) model at the Future of the Car Summit in London. The event was organised by the Financial Times alongside UK-based Motability Operations Ltd. This launch highlights Kia’s ongoing efforts to improve mobility for those with disabilities. It also shows the company’s commitment to making transportation more accessible.

Rising Demand for Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles

The company is working on a new electric WAV (eWAV) to go with its popular PBV models. This move aims to meet the rising global demand for simple and easy-to-use vehicles. As people live longer, more seniors need reliable transport. This surge in demand makes WAVs more important than ever. 

That said, transport companies are now growing their WAV services, and some countries are even changing their policies to support them. And as older petrol and diesel vehicles are phased out, the eWAV market is expected to keep growing.

Kia has a long history of efforts to improve mobility for everyone. Since 2012, the brand has worked on accessibility projects like the "Green Trip" in South Korea, which helps people with disabilities travel freely. In 2021, Kia took its accessibility work further by launching a project in Los Angeles. This project tested new car-hailing services aimed at people with special mobility needs in the US.

Kia PV5 WAV – Highlights

Kia PV5 WAV works to improve life for people with disabilities. It offers greater freedom for wheelchair users, their families, caregivers, and drivers. The vehicle makes travel easier, more comfortable, and accessible.

• It features a side-entry system that allows wheelchair users to get in safely from the sidewalk. 
• The model also includes a third-row tip-up seat, giving caregivers a side option to assist wheelchair passengers. 
• The PV5 WAV’s side-entry version will be built entirely at Kia’s Hwaseong EVO Plant in Korea. The plant uses Kia’s Made-In-Plant system, which prioritises eco-friendly practices. 
• The design allows easy curb-side access to improve safety and convenience. It includes a quick-deploy, 300kg-rated wheelchair ramp and a specially made wheelchair belt system for secure fastening. 
• The vehicle also integrates important apps for people with disabilities, based on the AAOS open software platform.

The full manufacturing process aims to lower environmental impact and break down barriers for those who need accessible vehicles.

Global Accessibility Initiatives

In February 2025, Kia announced a new partnership with Motability Operations during Kia EV Day. Motability is the UK's biggest vehicle leasing company. Their Motability Scheme helps people with disabilities access affordable and easy-to-drive vehicles. It plays a vital role in helping disabled individuals find work, access healthcare, go to school, and enjoy independence.

Kia will use this relationship to lead the way with customer-focused electric wheelchair-accessible vehicles (eWAVs). These vehicles are part of Kia’s plan to provide sustainable mobility solutions for everyone. The company also aims to expand its purpose-built vehicle (PBV) wheelchair-accessible van (WAV) offerings to more parts of the world which may also include the Middle East region.