History was made on August 21, 2025, in Žilina, Slovakia—a date destined to be etched in European automotive lore. The very first Kia EV4, a fully electric hatchback built in Europe, rolled off the line, representing not just another new model but a seismic shift in Kia’s strategy. If you’ve ever doubted that electric vehicles are the future, Kia’s confident leap onto European soil might just change your mind.
A New Chapter for Kia in Europe
Until now, every electric Kia making its way to European drivers hailed from Asia. The debut of the EV4 in Žilina isn’t just a production milestone; it’s a declaration. Kia isn’t just paying lip service to the continent’s potential—it’s putting down roots and sending a clear message: Europe, we’re here to stay.
Look closely, and you’ll see the EV4 is so much more than a fresh set of wheels. It stands as the electric sibling of the much-loved Kia Ceed, a mainstay on European roads for years. To see the Ceed family welcome an electric member feels almost poetic, marking Kia’s decisive move toward a future where zero-emission driving becomes the norm, not the exception.
Built for Europe, Ready for the Road
Under the skin, the EV4 proudly sits atop Kia’s proven e-GMP platform, meaning it’s tailored for European tastes and driving habits. But what really turns heads is its impressive range: over 600 kilometers, courtesy of an 81.4 kWh battery. Kia has set its crosshairs on household rivals such as the Volkswagen ID.3, Renault Mégane E-Tech, and MG4. And here’s the kicker: you can slip behind the wheel for just under €39,000. With this punchy combination of range and a surprisingly sharp starting price, the EV4 doesn’t just aim to perform—it aims to make electric driving truly accessible.
- 81.4 kWh battery providing a range of over 600 km
- Competitive starting price, just below €39,000
- Direct competition for ID.3, Mégane E-Tech, and MG4
But what really sets the EV4 apart is its passport. Built exclusively in Europe, the car comes with some extra perks. Shorter delivery times? Check. Smoother logistics? You bet. And perhaps most crucially, buyers benefit from a vehicle that aligns seamlessly with European regulations and subsidy schemes.
Factory Innovation: Where Green Meets Keen
The Žilina plant isn’t new to European strategy—it’s been a key player for Kia since 2004. For the EV4, Kia poured in over one hundred million euros to gear up for electric drivetrains, complete with major upgrades in automation and sustainability.
- The factory now runs entirely on renewable energy.
- Significant reductions in electricity and water usage over recent years.
- CO₂ emissions per produced car have gone down—even the factory learned to breathe cleaner!
Kia’s commitment to electric doesn’t stop at the car itself; it’s transforming the way cars are built. This broad approach reassures customers that choosing an EV4 means embracing sustainability at every step, from the drawing board to your driveway.
Confidence Close to Home
The EV4’s European launch isn’t just about challenging established giants and ambitious newcomers from China—it’s about trust. European buyers can now opt for an affordable, efficient electric hatchback that’s made quite literally closer to home. In times when sustainability and local manufacturing weigh more in purchasing decisions than ever, this proximity brings comfort—and perhaps a little extra pride.
With its formidable range, appealing price point, and that proud « Made in Europe » badge, the Kia EV4 is much more than another pretty face on the forecourt. It’s a promise: Kia’s future, like its manufacturing, is firmly anchored in Europe. If you’d like more information on the Kia EV4, head over to the model’s dedicated page. And if you’re itching to see this newcomer up close, why not sign up for the Vaneman EV Experience in Abcoude? Who knows, you might just be among the first in Europe to get a taste of history in motion.
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.
