Hyundai is preparing a fifth-generation Porter small truck, and a heavily camouflaged prototype has been spotted testing in Europe. The new model will represent a major change for the long-running commercial vehicle, including the introduction of an electric version and the possibility of European sales.

The Porter has been in production since 1977, while the current fourth-generation model has been sold since 2004 with relatively few updates. The upcoming truck is expected to replace that aging design with a more modern body and updated safety credentials.

Electric powertrain under consideration

The fifth-generation Porter will be the first version of the truck available with an electric powertrain. Hyundai may use components related to those found in Kia’s larger PV5 commercial vehicle, which is based on a modified version of the Hyundai Group’s E-GMP platform called E-GMP.S.

The PV5 uses a 400-volt electrical system, although Hyundai has not disclosed whether the Porter will share that specification. The test vehicle was photographed connected to a charger, but the charger’s display was not visible, leaving its charging speed unknown.

Handwritten text on a chassis rail reportedly indicates that the prototype uses four-wheel drive. That detail has not been confirmed as a production specification.

Potential European sales

The new Porter is believed to be under development partly to meet stricter European crash-test and emissions requirements. Its European testing suggests the region is being considered, but Hyundai has not confirmed that the truck will be sold there.

The Porter currently serves markets including Chile, Peru, Brazil and South Korea, along with other countries in Asia and Africa. Hyundai could continue offering it in those regions, while a simpler and likely less expensive gasoline-powered version may help maintain its appeal beyond the electric model.

A more modern exterior

Despite its heavy disguise, the prototype clearly differs from the outgoing Porter. It has a squarer body, a flat windshield and upright side windows. Covered front-end details appear to include square headlights and small air intakes.

The front of the truck is also slightly longer than the current model, a change that may have been made to improve crash protection. The prototype features a compact cab and a comparatively long cargo bed, suggesting it is an extended-cab variant.

Hyundai has not yet released technical specifications, charging figures or production details for the new Porter. Its eventual availability in Europe also remains undecided.