The world of electric cars has become a battlefield, and Kia has just fired a cannonball that’s got the competition quaking in their boots. In a factory in Slovakia, where the scent of fresh steel and ambition fills the air, the very first European-made Kia EV4 has rolled off the production line. This isn’t just any car, dear readers—it’s a statement. A middle finger to the naysayers who thought South Korean cars were only good for budget-conscious commuters. Let’s dive into this electric adventure and find out why the EV4 is turning the automotive world upside down.
Let’s start with the big news: Kia is now building electric cars in Europe. Not in some far-flung corner of Asia, but right here on our continent, in a factory that’s churned out five million cars since Kia set up shop. The EV4 is the first electric model to be born here, and it’s a milestone that’ll make even the most jaded car enthusiast raise an eyebrow. Why does this matter? Because it shows Kia’s determination to conquer the European market with cars that are not only green but also locally rooted. It’s like they’re saying, “We’re here, we’re staying, and we’re going to outdo those German and Japanese rivals.”
The EV4 itself is a hatchback that looks like it was designed by someone who’s seen the future and decided it looks damn good. Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design language is on full display here: sharp lines that could cut your eyes, paired with curves that are almost sensual. It’s a car that looks ready to give the Volkswagen ID.3 a proper thrashing and then take a victory lap for good measure. With a range reportedly close to 500 kilometers, this isn’t some city runabout that’ll only get you from the bakery to your house. No, this is a serious contender that can handle long drives without forcing you to stop at every charging station you pass.
But let’s talk about what makes this car truly special: it’s not just another EV. Kia has built a reputation in recent years as a brand that dares. While some manufacturers still churn out electric cars that look like toasters on wheels, Kia has the guts to make cars you want to touch, drive, and show off to your mates. The EV4 is the younger sibling of the EV3, which was crowned World Car of the Year earlier this year. And if you think that was a fluke, think again. Kia’s parent company has been racking up awards left and right for the past four years, and the EV4 looks set to keep that streak alive.
So, what makes this car such a game-changer? First off, the price. While exact figures aren’t set in stone yet, the rumor mill suggests the EV4 will be affordable enough not to leave the average European sobbing at the dealership. That’s crucial because, let’s be honest, electric cars are often so expensive you’d need to sell your house to buy one. Kia seems to get that if you want to convince the masses to go electric, you’ve got to win over their hearts and their wallets. And with a design that looks like a concept car that accidentally made it to production, the heart is already half-won.
Then there’s the tech. Kia didn’t just slap a battery and an electric motor into an old Ceed. The EV4 shares its platform with the Hyundai Ioniq 5, a car that’s already earned praise for its fast-charging capabilities and clever interior. So, expect a cockpit that feels more like a spaceship than a car, with screens big enough to watch a movie on and smart features that make you feel like you’re living in 2030. And let’s not forget the interior: Kia has a knack for making cars that feel like luxury apartments inside, even if the price tag doesn’t reflect it.
But it’s not all sunshine and roses. The competition is cutthroat. The Skoda Elroq recently stole the crown as Europe’s most popular EV, and Volkswagen’s ID series is always lurking. Yet Kia has an ace up its sleeve: they’re not afraid to take risks. While other brands play it safe with boring choices, Kia goes all-in with designs you won’t forget and tech that’ll make your neighbors jealous. And let’s be real—who wants a car that looks like a glorified vacuum cleaner?
Producing the EV4 in Slovakia is also a savvy move. By building locally, Kia sidesteps sky-high import costs and can respond faster to European demand. Plus, it’s a signal that Kia takes Europe seriously. This isn’t a brand that’s just popping in for a quick visit before leaving. They’re investing in our roads, our jobs, and our future. And the cherry on top? The Slovakian factory is a model of efficiency, with a track record that’d make even the most critical German blush.
So, what’s the verdict? The Kia EV4 is more than a car; it’s a manifesto. It’s Kia’s way of saying, “We’re ready to lead the electric revolution, and we’re doing it with style, tech, and a price that doesn’t make you feel like you need to sell a kidney.” Whether you’re an eco-conscious hipster or just someone who loves a good deal, this car has something for you. And if you thought electric cars were boring, the EV4 proves you were dead wrong.
For those already itching to hit the road in a 100% electric ride, check out our marketplace. You’ll find an overview of the best electric cars you can search for and buy. See them here: https://volty.be/nl/buy/cars/overview/.
