TWO KIA PV5 VANS COMPARED: ONE FOR A SERVICE ENGINEER, ONE FOR AN ELECTRICIAN
The KIA PV5: two Syncro solutions compared
A comparative look at two KIA PV5 racking solutions
The launch of the KIA PV5 marked a turning point in commercial vehicle design by introducing the “Platform Beyond Vehicle” concept. The new van boasts an all-electric drive system. This has inevitable consequences, structurally in the form of a geometrically regular base, and in terms of weight, because the greatest care needs to be taken to avoid overloading, which would penalise range and efficiency.
On this page we compare very different racking solutions installed in two of the first Kia PV5 vans to enter Syncro’s workshops. One configuration is for an electrician and is characterised by high storage density. The other is for a service engineer and prioritises the flexibility of the cargo compartment, with plenty of space left free to accommodate bulky equipment and spare parts.
Two approaches to protecting the Kia PV5
Proper bodywork protection is one of the most important factors in ensuring that your van and its racking system last for many years to come. The owners of the two KIA PV5 vans on this page requested quite similar lining solutions, but with key differences.
The floors of both vans are protected by 9 mm thick grey plywood floor liners while the walls are lined with galvanised and painted steel panels in an attractive grey.
In the case of KIA PV5 (2) the owner also requested protection for the bulkhead in the same material used for the floor, and for the extended left-hand wheel arch, which is encased in painted steel sheet.
Other lining solutions for the Kia PV5
The left of the KIA PV5: the two solutions compared
Both Kia PV5 vans are fitted with two side-by-side columns of racking on the left, though the configurations and accessories are different.
Kia PV5 (1)
In this van, the rear column includes:
- a bottom compartment with a door
- two metal drawers
- two pull-out trays containing two plastic cases each
- an open shelf of removable plastic containers
- a top shelf
The side panel of this column is fitted with two spray can racks, a silicone tube rack and a first aid kit.
The forward column of racking consists of:
- a floor-level compartment with a lashing strap at the front
- a configurable shelf
- three shelves of removable containers
- a top shelf
Kia PV5 (2)
The racking in this van is simpler and comprises a floor-level compartment, partly enclosed by a lift-and-rotate door, and a second floor-level compartment with a lashing strap for case transport. Moving up we find three metal drawers, four configurable shelves with non-slip mats and internal dividers and, finally, a full-length top tray for long items.
The Kia PV5’s right wall: with or without racking
The right wall has been treated very differently in these two vans, while the bulkhead has been left free in both cases.
Kia PV5 (1):
The racking on the right of this van consists of a bottom compartment with a lift-up door, four open shelves with a total of 16 removable plastic containers and a configurable shelf at the top. The side panel is equipped with a bar rack with a metal flange and a lashing strap. The unlined bulkhead is fitted with two milled bars for securing cargo.
Kia PV5 (2):
In this van, the right wall has been partly lined but otherwise left completely free. The bulkhead is protected by plywood panelling but is not otherwise equipped.
Cargo strategies: organisation vs. flexibility
The different ways in which the cargo compartments of these two Kia PV5 vans have been arranged underscores the versatility of the Syncro racking system.
In Kia 1, racking occupies both sides symmetrically, leaving a central corridor large enough to ensure easy access. Every inch of space is used to organise contents in the most efficient way possible.
In Kia 2 an asymmetric configuration has been adopted in order to free up space. The unequipped right wall and bulkhead maximise available floor area and therefore cargo capacity.
Syncro racking centres welcome the era of zero-emission vehicles! The lightweight, modular design of Syncro racking allows electric drive trains to express their full potential without having to drag excess weight.
Want to learn how to optimise work in your van and reduce the downtime caused by clutter? Request an obligation-free consultation with Syncro – the specialists in van racking!