Kia has begun production of electrical vehicles in Europe for the primary time, with the brand new EV4 hatchback rolling off the road at its AutoLand Slovakia plant this week.
The EV4 is Kia’s first fully electric automobile to be inbuilt Europe following a €108 million (£93m) investment to modernise the factory’s production lines.
For UK retailers, the move is critical.
By constructing EVs in Europe, Kia goals to cut back supply chain risks and shorten delivery times, each of which have challenged the broader industry in recent times.
European production also signals a stronger long-term commitment to electrification in markets just like the UK, where Kia is already certainly one of the top-selling EV brands.
Marc Hedrich, president and chief executive of Kia Europe, said: “The beginning of EV4 production is a large milestone for us.
“It demonstrates the technical capability and suppleness of our European operations.
“From August 20, Slovakia will construct fully electric cars alongside models with hybrid and internal combustion powertrains.
“Through the expansion of our production capabilities, we’re supporting our diverse European customer base much more.”
The EV4 is built on Hyundai Motor Group’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP).
It’ll be offered with two battery options, a 58.3kWh unit and a bigger 81.4kWh pack, with a spread of as much as 391 miles on a single charge.
Kia’s Žilina plant, which opened in 2004, is already home to models corresponding to the Sportage and XCeed, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants.
It has an annual capability of 350,000 vehicles and has produced greater than five million units since opening.
The ability currently runs on renewable electricity and is expanding its sustainability measures with a brand new photovoltaic power plant due this 12 months.
While the EV4 hatchback is inbuilt Europe, the saloon-styled EV4 Fastback will probably be produced in Korea at Kia’s Autoland Gwangmyeong EVO plant.
This Article First Appeared At www.am-online.com
