Kia Begins Production of First Made in Europe EV4 Hatchback

Kia has officially started series production of its new EV4 hatchback at its European manufacturing facility in Zilina, Slovakia, marking a significant milestone for the South Korean brand. This is Kia’s first fully electric vehicle to be built in Europe, made possible after a EUR 108 million (USD 125 million) upgrade of production lines at the site.

The EV4 is maiden attempt of Kia at an electric hatchback, making it both a product and production milestone. Based on Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP platform, the compact EV hatch measures 4,430 mm in length, 1,860 mm in width, and 1,485 mm in height - dimensions comparable to the Kia XCeed.

Customers will be able to choose between two battery options: a 58.3 kWh pack or a larger 81.4 kWh unit, providing a WLTP-certified range of up to 391 miles. The EV4 also supports Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) functions, catering to evolving consumer demand for smart energy use.

Strengthening Kia’s European Presence

The Zilina plant, Kia’s sole production facility in Europe, already produces models with hybrid and internal combustion engines. With the introduction of all-electric production, the Slovakian factory is set to play a critical role as Kia seeks to expand its regional market share.

“This start of production is a huge milestone for us,” said Marc Hedrich, CEO of Kia Europe. “From 20 August, Slovakia will build fully electric cars alongside models with hybrid and internal combustion powertrains.”

The plant currently contributes about 1 percent of Kia’s global output, but the expansion into EV manufacturing is expected to elevate its strategic importance in Kia’s global operations.

Pricing and Market Availability

In the UK, the entry-level EV4 Air Standard Range is priced at EUR 34,695 (USD 47,700), with the longer 81.4 kWh variant starting at EUR 37,695 (USD 51,700). Kia also introduced the EV4 Fastback (sedan version) last month, priced from EUR 40,895 (USD 55,000) with a WLTP driving range of up to 380 miles. Unlike the hatchback, however, the Fastback will be built in Gwangmyeong, South Korea.

Expanding Kia’s EV Portfolio in Europe

The EV4 joins Kia’s fast-growing electric lineup in Europe, where the EV3 emerged as the top-selling EV in the UK in the first half of 2025. Later this year, Kia plans to roll out the EV5 SUV, followed by the entry-level EV2 in 2026.

Separately, the automaker has begun expanding its electrified commercial vehicle offerings, launching the PV5 electric van in European markets. Initially available in passenger and cargo versions, the van will ultimately be offered in up to seven body styles, including a light camper and an open-bed variant.