Kia has started the production of the EV2, the company’s second fully electric vehicle (EV) to be assembled in Europe. This represents another step forward in Kia’s electrification strategy for the region. The B-segment SUV will be assembled at Kia Slovakia, following the modernisation programme on the production lines that were completed in 2025.
Soohang Chang, Kia Europe’s president and CEO, said: “The start of production for the EV2 continues to verify our technical capabilities and flexibility in Europe. When the EV4 went into production last August, we demonstrated our ability to produce fully electric models and cars with hybrid and internal combustion powertrains side-by-side. Now adding the EV2, the output of our Slovakian factory will better support Kia’s electrification strategy in Europe.
Tomáš Potoèek, spokesperson for Kia Slovakia, said: “We had already set up the processes for local EV manufacturing when preparing for the EV4 production launch. With our skilled workforce and hundreds of robots backed by advanced manufacturing technologies, the EV2 is rolling off the assembly as we speak.”
By bringing Kia’s electric expertise to the B-SUV segment, the EV2 makes electric mobility more accessible, helping customers transition with confidence. The model is offered with a choice of two battery options, 42.2kWh and 61kWh, presenting anticipated ranges of up to 317 and 453km (WLTP pending). Flexible charging options, including 400V DC fast charging and 11kW AC charging, support both urban commuting and longer journeys, while connected services, such as EV route planning, Plug and Charge functionality, and bi-directional charging, simplify ownership.
Everyday usabilityThe EV2 offers the best of Kia for modern European lifestyles. Designed to serve as the primary car of the household, the EV2 focuses on everyday usability. Its compact size still offers generous leg room, sliding and reclining rear seats, and up to 403 litres of cargo capacity. Kia’s triple-screen display options, Over-the-Air (OTA) updates, and a comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) exceed expectations for the segment.
Founded in 2004 in Žilina, Kia Slovakia was established to better serve key European markets. The almost 2km
2 factory employs around 3,700 people and operates with more than 600 advanced robots across five main production areas — press, body, paint, engine, and assembly.
Last year, Kia Slovakia invested more than 200 million euros into modernisation, such as next-generation robotics, enhancements to the production lines, and an improved work environment. The facility produced approximately 300,000 vehicles and about 470,000 engines in 2025, including the XCeed, Sportage, and EV4, which were exported to 73 countries. These figures account for 9.3% of Kia’s global vehicle output.
Kia Slovakia has integrated sustainability initiatives into its operations. For example, starting Q2 2026, a photovoltaic power plant, operating completely on renewable electricity, is expected to generate up to 1.5% of the facility’s annual electricity requirements. In December, Kia Slovakia will celebrate 20 years of European manufacturing.