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Kia has launched production of the EV4 at its modernized facility in Žilina, Slovakia, marking a significant step in its European electrification strategy. This five-door hatchback, designed specifically for European customers, is built on Hyundai Motor Group’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), combining performance, efficiency, and innovative energy solutions.
Key Highlights
- First EV Production in Europe: The EV4 is Kia’s inaugural fully electric vehicle manufactured at its Slovakia plant.
- Advanced Technology: Features Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) capabilities, subject to market availability.
- Battery Options: Available with 58.3kWh or 81.4kWh batteries, offering up to 391 miles of range (WLTP).
- Modernized Facility: A €108-million investment upgraded Kia’s Žilina plant for EV production.
- Sustainability Focus: The plant operates on 100% renewable electricity and has reduced energy and water usage significantly.
EV4: Tailored for Europe
The Kia EV4, unveiled globally in February 2025, is a stylish electric hatchback crafted with Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, featuring bold lines and an aluminum bonnet for enhanced handling. It offers five vibrant exterior paint options and is exclusively assembled at Kia AutoLand Slovakia. The EV4 balances efficiency and performance, with a range of up to 391 miles on a single charge, though real-world range may vary based on driving conditions, speed, and temperature.
Žilina Plant: A European Hub
Kia’s Žilina facility, operational since 2004, spans two square kilometers and employs approximately 3,700 workers alongside 600 advanced robots. With an annual capacity of 350,000 vehicles and 540,000 engines, the plant has produced over five million units, contributing 11% to Kia’s global vehicle output. The facility also manufactures models like the Kia XCeed and Sportage, with hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants making up 25% of its 2024 production.
Recent upgrades, including a €108-million investment, introduced an EV battery conveyor and other advanced technologies to support EV4 production. The plant’s sustainability efforts are notable, with an 11% reduction in electricity use per vehicle, a 28% decrease in water consumption, and a 13% drop in CO2 emissions since 2014. A new photovoltaic power plant will soon meet 1.5% of the facility’s energy needs.
Leadership Perspectives
Marc Hedrich, President and CEO of Kia Europe, emphasized the milestone: “The start of EV4 production demonstrates the technical capability and flexibility of our European operations.” Tomáš Potoček, spokesperson for Kia Slovakia, added, “By combining advanced manufacturing technology with our skilled workforce, we have successfully begun mass production of the EV4.”
Broader Production Strategy
While the five-door EV4 is produced in Slovakia, the EV4 Fastback variant will be manufactured at Kia’s Autoland Gwangmyeong EVO plant in Korea. The Žilina plant’s ability to produce electric, hybrid, and internal combustion vehicles simultaneously underscores Kia’s commitment to meeting diverse customer needs across 83 export markets.
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