ia has added another accolade to its growing trophy cabinet of innovative designs, with the PV5 WKNDR Concept securing a Silver Award in the Automotive & Transportation category at the prestigious International Design Excellence Awards (IDEA) 2025.Announced on September 22, 2025, this recognition celebrates the zero-emission adventure van’s fusion of cutting-edge technology, modular versatility, and eco-conscious materials—hallmarks of Kia’s forward-thinking “Opposites United” philosophy.As one of the world’s most esteemed design competitions, IDEA underscores Kia’s rising global influence in sustainable mobility, following its “Best of the Best” win at the Red Dot Design Awards earlier this year.Unveiled at the 2024 SEMA Showcase, the PV5 WKNDR Concept reimagines the adventure van as a self-sufficient, all-electric haven for off-road explorers, blending urban functionality with rugged escapism.In an era where electric vehicles are increasingly tasked with delivering real-world utility, this PBV (Purpose-Built Vehicle) stands out for its ability to thrive in remote environments, powered by innovative energy solutions and adaptable spaces.
A Self-Sufficient Powerhouse for the Wild
At its core, the PV5 WKNDR is engineered for independence, making it ideal for weekend warriors venturing beyond the grid. The van’s battery system can be recharged via integrated solar panels on the roof, harnessing sunlight during extended outdoor stays.
What truly sets it apart are the hydro-turbine wheels—a novel feature that generates electricity from water flow, allowing owners to recharge while crossing rivers or streams in off-road terrain.
This zero-emission setup ensures the vehicle remains powered even in the most isolated spots, aligning with Kia’s vision for sustainable, adventure-ready EVs.Built on Kia’s extensible EV PBV platform, the concept is lifted for enhanced ground clearance and fitted with rugged off-road tires, enabling seamless transitions from city streets to backcountry trails.
Its aerodynamic yet robust exterior, with a boxy silhouette optimized for cargo and comfort, draws from the brand’s modular PBV lineup, including the PV5 series, which prioritizes customization for diverse lifestyles.
Modular Magic: Interiors That Adapt to Your Journey
Versatility is the PV5 WKNDR’s defining trait, embodied in its highly flexible modular interior. Users can reconfigure seating, storage, and workspaces on the fly, transforming the van into a mobile office, camper, or gear-hauling beast.
A key highlight is the “Gear Head”—an innovative off-board storage pod that deploys when parked, providing sheltered space for equipment like bikes, kayaks, or even a pop-up kitchen.
This first-of-its-kind solution maximizes the van’s footprint without sacrificing interior room, offering unparalleled adaptability for solo travelers or groups.Sustainability permeates every detail, from the recycled materials in the cabin to the overall lightweight construction that boosts efficiency. The flooring incorporates Nike Grind, crafted from repurposed athletic sneakers, blending durability with an eco-friendly ethos.
These elements not only reduce environmental impact but also enhance the van’s aesthetic appeal, creating a cozy, modern retreat that feels at home in nature.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | All-electric with solar panels and hydro-turbine wheels for off-grid recharging |
| Modular Interior | Reconfigurable seating and workspaces; Gear Head external storage pod |
| Eco Materials | Nike Grind flooring from recycled sneakers; lightweight, sustainable build |
| Off-Road Capability | Lifted chassis, all-terrain tires for urban-to-wild transitions |
| PBV Platform | Scalable design from Kia’s Purpose-Built Vehicles lineup |
Kia’s Design Triumph: Voices from the Team
The IDEA Silver Award validates Kia’s bold pivot toward user-centric, sustainable innovation. Karim Habib, Head of Kia Global Design, expressed pride in the achievement: “Recognition from IDEA is a great honor, demonstrating the impact and value of Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ philosophy in guiding our future design vision.”
He added that such accolades “recognize the dedication of our global team but also motivate us to continue to innovate and further strengthen Kia’s commitment to bringing products that are relevant and meaningful to our customers.”
This win builds on the PV5 WKNDR’s earlier success at the Red Dot Awards in July 2025, where it clinched the “Best of the Best” honor, affirming its status as a design benchmark.
For Kia, which has been expanding its PBV portfolio to include urban delivery and leisure vehicles, the concept signals a deeper foray into lifestyle EVs that cater to the growing demand for eco-adventures
Broader Implications: Shaping the Future of EV Adventures
The PV5 WKNDR’s accolades come at a pivotal moment for the EV market, where consumers seek vehicles that balance performance, sustainability, and practicality. As adventure tourism surges—projected to grow 20% annually through 2030—this concept could inspire production models that democratize off-grid travel.
Kia’s PBV strategy, emphasizing modularity and electrification, positions the brand to compete with rivals like Rivian and Mercedes’ EQV, but with a focus on affordability and innovation.While still a concept, whispers of a production version by 2027 suggest the PV5 WKNDR could soon hit roads, potentially influencing global trends in camper vans. For now, its IDEA win reinforces Kia’s narrative: Design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about enabling meaningful experiences in a changing world.In the words of the IDEA jury, this silver shines bright for a vision that’s as rugged as it is refined.
