Kia has officially launched production of the new Kia EV2, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s European electrification push. Built at the Kia Slovakia facility, the EV2 becomes the second fully electric Kia model assembled in Europe, following the Kia EV4.
The move strengthens Kia’s regional manufacturing footprint while supporting growing demand for affordable electric vehicles in Europe’s highly competitive B-SUV segment.
Production of the EV2 follows a major modernization program completed in 2025 at the Slovakian plant. The upgraded facility now supports flexible manufacturing, allowing electric, hybrid, and internal combustion vehicles to be produced on the same lines.
This adaptability was first demonstrated with the EV4 rollout and now expands further with the addition of the EV2. The factory’s increased output capacity is expected to play a key role in scaling Kia’s EV presence across Europe.
Compact Electric SUV with Practical Range
Positioned as an accessible entry point into electric mobility, the EV2 brings Kia’s EV technology into the popular B-SUV category. It offers two battery configurations:
– 42.2 kWh battery – up to 317 km (WLTP pending)
– 61.0 kWh battery – up to 453 km (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 & Charge functionality, and bidirectional charging, simplify ownership.
The 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 legroom, 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.
Kia Slovakia: A Key European Production Hub
Established in 2004, the Žilina-based facility has become a central pillar of Kia’s European operations. The plant spans nearly two square kilometers and employs around 3,700 workers, supported by more than 600 advanced robots across five production areas.
In 2025 alone, the factory produced approximately 300,000 vehicles and about 470,000 engines, including the XCeed, Sportage, and EV4, which were exported to 73 countries. These figures account for 9.3% of Kia’s global vehicle output.
Recent investments exceeding €200 million have enhanced robotics, production efficiency, and working conditions, preparing the site for increased EV output.
Sustainability Efforts Gain Momentum
Kia Slovakia is also advancing its sustainability initiatives. Starting in Q2 2026, a new photovoltaic power plant is expected to supply up to 1.5% of the facility’s annual electricity needs using renewable energy.
This aligns with Kia’s broader commitment to reducing the environmental impact of its manufacturing operations.
