Žilina, Slovakia- Kia Corporation., has begun production of the five-door EV4 hatchback, its first fully electric vehicle manufactured in Europe, following a €108 million upgrade at the company’s AutoLand Slovakia facility in Žilina. The move marks a major milestone in Kia’s regional electrification strategy.
Built on Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP platform, the EV4 is offered with a 58.3 kWh standard battery and an 81.4 kWh extended-range variant. Key features include Vehicle-to-Load (V2L), Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G), an aluminium bonnet for reduced weight, and a choice of eight exterior colours, including one exclusive matte finish. First unveiled globally in February 2025, the EV4 is tailored to European customers seeking innovation, performance, and sustainable mobility.
Opened in 2004, the Žilina plant employs 3,700 people and operates with more than 600 robots across five production areas. With an annual capacity of 350,000 vehicles and 540,000 engines, it has produced over five million units for export to 83 countries. Current output includes the Kia Sportage and XCeed, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions.
The facility also integrates sustainability initiatives, running entirely on renewable electricity and reducing resource use since 2014. A new photovoltaic plant under construction will cover around 1.5% of its energy demand by year-end.
Mr. Marc Hedrich, President and CEO of Kia Europe, said, “The start of EV4 production is a huge milestone for us. It demonstrates the technical capability and flexibility of our European operations. From 20 August, Slovakia will build fully electric cars alongside models with hybrid and internal combustion powertrains. Through the expansion of our production capabilities, we are supporting our diverse European customer base even more.”
Mr. Tomáš Potoček, spokesperson for Kia Slovakia, said, “We have been preparing for the EV4’s production launch for a long time. “By combining advanced manufacturing technology with the dedication of our skilled workforce, we have successfully begun mass production of this model.”
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