Hyundai Motor Group has confirmed that series production of the Kia EV4 electric saloon will commence in South Korea in March 2025. Additionally, rumors suggest a special European version of the EV4 may be produced locally.
During the EV4’s initial reveal, production was slated for 2024. However, Hyundai has since postponed the timeline. According to the Korea Times, this delay is attributed to “falling EV sentiment triggered by a temporary demand stagnation before widespread adoption.”
The EV4 will be manufactured at the Gwangmyeong plant in South Korea, sharing a production line with the EV3, which launched domestically in May. Both models will be based on the 400-volt E-GMP electric platform. Kia aims to produce more than 150,000 units annually, with a target of 70,000 EV4s and 80,000 EV3s.
Technical details for the EV4 are yet to be disclosed. However, it is expected to have specifications similar to the EV3, which features a 150 kW motor, 283 Nm of torque, and battery options of 58.3 kWh or 81.4 kWh. The EV3’s WLTP range varies from 429 kilometers with the smaller battery to 600 kilometers with the larger one. The EV4, benefiting from a more aerodynamic saloon shape, is likely to exceed these ranges.
Reports indicate that the EV4 produced in South Korea will be a classic notchback saloon. However, Kia might introduce a fastback variant for the European market. The Korean Car Blog has published images of a prototype described as a “European-specific model of the EV4, with five doors.” The prototype, spotted near Kia’s European development center in Rüsselsheim, Germany, may be manufactured at Kia’s plant in Zilina, Slovakia.
Kia aims to strengthen its position in the European automotive sector, aligning with its broader goal of establishing a robust foothold in the global EV market. “This strategic move aligns with Kia’s broader goal to establish a robust foothold in the global EV market,” the Korean Car Blog stated.
Additionally, the Spanish eMobility portal Forocoches electricos has released images of another EV4 variant, possibly a crossover or minivan. The vehicle appears taller than the five-door model, suggesting it could be a more practical version with an estimated 600 liters of boot space and a length of around 4.50 meters. This model could potentially replace the Niro EV, currently positioned below the EV6.
Kia Plans to Launch Affordable EV4 Electric Sedan Next Year with Ambitious Production Target
As Kia continues to expand its electric vehicle lineup, the EV4 is set to play a key role in its strategy to capture a significant share of the global EV market.
