KIA has started the production of the EV2, the company's second fully electric vehicle to be assembled in Europe.

The compact SUV will be assembled at Kia Slovakia, following the modernisation programme on the production lines that were completed in 2025.

"The start of production for the EV2 continues to verify our technical capabilities and flexibility in Europe," said Soohang Chang, president and CEO at Kia 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."

The EV2 is offered with a choice of two battery options, 42.2kWh and 61.0kWh, giving anticipated ranges of up to almost 200 miles and 280 miles.

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 bidirectional charging.

The EV2, despite 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.

Founded in 2004 in Zilina, Kia Slovakia was established to better serve key European markets. The almost two-square-mile 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 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 per cent of Kia's global vehicle output.

In December, Kia Slovakia will celebrate twenty years of European production.