This Kia Camper Van Is a ‘Swiss Army Knife on Wheels’

There’s no toothpick included, but this EV’s modularity makes it just as versatile as an SAK.

the kia pv5 wkndr ev camper van concept parked in the woods seen from behind

Published November 7, 2024

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With the 2024 SEMA Show taking place in Las Vegas this week, auto brands have been showcasing their latest pretty exciting and wild concepts.

One of the biggest surprises to come out of the show has been Kia, which unveiled a pair of outdoor-ready EV concepts. One was the EV9 ADVNTR SUV, an admittedly badass take on the brand’s three-row electric SUV sporting a three-inch lift kit, off-road tires wrapped around custom wheels, and a rugged redesign including rocker panels and a tent-ready roof rack.

But even more exciting was the brand’s electric camper van concept, which Kia likened to a “Swiss Army Knife on wheels.”

the kia pv5 wkndr ev camper van concept driving in the desert — The new concept is based on Kia’s electric commercial van platform.

Modular Mobility

Kia’s new camper van concept is the PV5 WKNDR, which is based on the Korean automaker’s electric PBV (Purpose Beyond Vehicles) line of commercial vans. The WKNDR, like the aforementioned ADVNTR SUV, is equipped with a lift kit, off-road tires, and more rugged styling to optimize it for off-road use.

But what’s really interesting is the camper van’s interior.

the interior of the kia pv5 wkndr ev camper van concept — The “Gear Head” exterior storage unit lets you maximize the space inside the van.

The PV5 WKNDR boasts a modular design that allows you to tailor its features toward your specific adventure. Most crucial to this concept is a pop-out, sheltered storage unit Kia calls the “Gear Head.” This first-of-its-kind feature allows you to store your gear outside the van itself once you’re parked, maximizing interior space. The interior can then be reconfigured to your liking with swiveling seats and other moveable parts.

The van is ready for off-grid living, too. Expansive solar panels on the roof provide power, while innovative hydro turbine wheels can recharge the vehicle’s battery. An on-board air compressor, a pop-up rooftop tent, and a pop-out kitchen provide more utility, with Kia noting that the “Gear Head” can be converted into a pantry if outdoor cooking is a main focus of your excursion.

the kia pv5 wkndr ev camper van concept driving in the desert seen from above — A rooftop solar array adorns the hard-top pop-up tent.

Unfortunately, like much of what we’ve seen unveiled at SEMA, the PV5 WKNDR is only a concept. Admittedly, its Cybertruck-adjacent styling is probably a little too out-there for most consumers, but some of its features — such as the “Gear Head” storage solution and hydro turbine wheels — show potential for real-world applications.

Whether Kia actually wants to mount a serious attempt at making an EV camper van is anyone’s guess. But if they do, the brand has a pretty solid blueprint to work from with the PV5 WKNDR.