Kia Starts European EV Production With EV4

Kia has begun manufacturing electric vehicles at its European facility in Slovakia with the introduction of the EV4 model. This marks the company's first fully electric vehicle to be produced in Europe, reinforcing its commitment to regional electrification.

The EV4's production commenced on August 20, 2025, at Kia AutoLand Slovakia. The vehicle is specifically designed for the European market. This European manufacturing capability is a key development in Kia's long-term strategy.

"The start of EV4 production is a huge milestone for us. It demonstrates the technical capability and flexibility of our European operations," stated Marc Hedrich, President and CEO of Kia Europe. "From August 20, Slovakia will build fully electric cars alongside hybrid and internal combustion engine models. By expanding our production capabilities, we are supporting our diverse European customer base even more."

The EV4 is built on Hyundai Motor Group's E-GMP platform and offers two battery options: a 58.3-kWh standard battery and an 81.4-kWh extended-range variant. It features advanced capabilities such as Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G). The model also includes an aluminum bonnet for weight reduction and eight exterior color choices.

The Kia facility in Žilina, Slovakia, established in 2004, employs approximately 3,700 people and is strategically positioned to serve major European markets. The plant has the capacity to produce multiple model variants.