History was made in Slovakia on August 21, 2025, when the very first fully electric Kia produced on European soil rolled off the line in Žilina. The newcomer in question? The Kia EV4—a compact hatchback that’s more than just another car; it’s a signal that Kia is switching gears and anchoring itself firmly in Europe’s electric future.
A New Chapter: Kia’s Electric Ambitions Take Root in Europe
For years, every electric Kia carried a passport stamped from Asia. Not anymore. With the arrival of the EV4, Kia is determined to show that it’s not only serious about Europe—it’s here to stay. This isn’t just a new car launch; it’s a turning point, a moment where Kia’s vision for an electric future becomes more than talk.
The EV4 serves as the electric sibling to the ever-popular Kia Ceed, a fixture on European roads for years. Introducing an electric model under the Ceed’s wing is almost symbolic. It signals Kia’s full commitment to a world where driving electric isn’t the exception but the everyday rule.
Performance and Price: A Game-Changer for European Drivers
Built on Kia’s proven e-GMP platform and designed with European drivers in mind, the EV4 brings competition directly to the front door of established electric rivals. Here’s what makes it stand out:
- Impressive range: Over 600 kilometers of driving on a single charge thanks to its 81.4 kWh battery—take that, range anxiety!
- Sharp pricing: The EV4 starts below €39,000, making it not just a performer but an accessible choice for a wider range of drivers.
That combination puts the EV4 shoulder to shoulder with competitors like the Volkswagen ID.3, the Renault Mégane E-Tech, and the MG4—only with a punchy new attitude and a distinctly European accent.
Made in Europe, for Europe: Why Local Manufacturing Matters
What sets the EV4 apart isn’t just what’s under the hood but where it’s built. Constructed entirely in Europe, the EV4 gives buyers more than just a car; it gives peace of mind:
- Shorter delivery times: Say goodbye to long waits and logistical headaches.
- Smoother logistics: Production close to home keeps things moving efficiently.
- Tailored to European needs: The EV4 is designed to fit seamlessly with the continent’s regulations and subsidy schemes.
The Žilina plant, a critical hub in Kia’s European playbook since 2004, underwent a €100 million investment to prepare for electric production. But Kia didn’t just upgrade machines—they overhauled their approach to sustainability, with the factory now running entirely on green energy. Over recent years, the site managed to significantly cut its electricity and water usage. Even better? CO₂ emissions per car have dropped, proving that going electric isn’t just about what you drive but how it’s made.
The EV4: More Than a Strategic Play
Bringing the EV4 to life in Europe is more than a clever move on a chessboard—it’s a clear message. Kia is ready to challenge legacy brands and take on new arrivals from China, all from within Europe itself. For consumers, this means an electric hatchback that’s not only affordable and efficient, but also produced closer to home—a reassuring thought as sustainability and local manufacturing climb higher on buyers’ priority lists.
With its impressive range, attractive price, and proud “Made in Europe” label, the EV4 is more than just another model. It’s a declaration: Kia’s future, like its production, is now firmly rooted in Europe.
Curious for more about the Kia EV4? Details are available on the model’s page. Eager to be among the first to see the EV4? Sign up for the Vaneman EV Experience in Abcoude!
John is a curious mind who loves to write about diverse topics. Passionate about sharing his thoughts and perspectives, he enjoys sparking conversations and encouraging discovery. For him, every subject is an invitation to discuss and learn.
