History was made on 21 August 2025 in Slovakia: the very first fully electric Kia built on European soil proudly rolled off the lines in Žilina. Enter the all-new Kia EV4, a compact hatchback that is not just a fresh face in the family, but a vibrant symbol of a pivotal shift in the brand’s direction. Up to now, every Kia electric model found its roots in Asia. But with the EV4 now made in Europe, Kia powerfully signals it is not just playing the European game; it’s here to win.
Electric Sibling, New Era
Make no mistake—this is more than just another car. The EV4 takes its seat as the electric sibling to the much-loved Kia Ceed, which has been a fixture on European roads for years. With the Ceed family welcoming a fully electric newcomer, there’s a certain symbolism in the air. This isn’t a timid first step; it marks Kia’s resolute leap into a future where electric driving is the new normal.
Tailored for Europe: Performance and Price
The EV4 stands confidently on Kia’s tried-and-tested e-GMP platform, designed specifically with European drivers in mind. With its impressive range of over 600 kilometers, thanks to a robust 81.4 kWh battery, Kia is gunning straight for competitors like the Volkswagen ID.3, Renault Mégane E-Tech, and MG4. The surprises don’t stop at performance—Kia’s keen pricing adds another punch: you can hop into an EV4 for just under €39,000. So, beyond ambitious performance, access doesn’t demand a platinum wallet either.
- 600+ km range (81.4 kWh battery)
- Starting price: just under €39,000
- Purpose-built for European roads and regulations
Wholly European: Built for the Continent
One remarkable feature of the EV4 is its complete European birth. This brings notable advantages—not only shorter delivery times and a smoother logistics process, but also a model crafted to fit European regulations and subsidy schemes like a glove. If you love efficiency (and who doesn’t?), this is good news all around.
The Žilina factory, a cornerstone of Kia’s European strategy since 2004, took a major leap to produce the EV4. Over €100 million was invested to adapt the lines for electric drivetrains. This overhaul included advancements in automation and a strong push for sustainability. The factory now operates entirely on green energy, and in recent years has impressively cut both electricity and water usage. Even CO₂ emissions per car have dropped. Kia wants us to know: their electric ambitions extend far beyond what happens on the road, right down to the flow of production itself.
A Statement to the Market: Ready for Battle
The European-built EV4 is not just a strategic maneuver—it’s an unmistakable message that Kia is prepared for battle against both established brands and ambitious new challengers from China, on turf that matters. European consumers now get something that’s not only affordable and efficient, but is also—quite literally—made closer to home. That fosters confidence, especially at a time where sustainability and local manufacturing are climbing the ranks of buyers’ priorities.
- Sustainability: Factory powered by green energy, reduced emissions and resource usage
- Local Value: Built for, and in, Europe
- Market Position: Affordable, competitive, and future-focused
With the EV4, Kia is turning a brand-new page—and Europe is already itching to try this “electric jacket” on for size. With its impressive range, sharp pricing, and the badge “Made in Europe” worn with pride, this model is more than just the new kid on the block. The EV4 is a promise: Kia’s future and its production are deeply rooted in Europe, come rain or shine.
Want to explore more about the Kia EV4? Check the model page for further details. And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, sign up to be among the first to see it at the Vaneman EV Experience in Abcoude. Who knows, you might find your next car – and your ticket to a more sustainable drive – even closer to home than you think!
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.
