Kia opens its first EV-only manufacturing plant in South Korea

Kia Corporation, which falls under the Hyundai Motor Group, has opened its first EV-only manufacturing plant for the mass production of EV models such as the EV3 and EV4. Called the Kia Gwangmyeong EVO Plant, the manufacturing facility has been updated from a ICE vehicle plant and will now exclusively mass produce EV models for the South Korean carmaker. Read on to know more about Kia’s first and only EV-only manufacturing plant.

Kia opens Gwangmyeong EVO plant

Kia Corporation has inaugurated the Kia Gwangmyeong EVO Plant, Hyundai Motor Group’s first dedicated EV manufacturing facility, located in South Korea. With an annual production capacity of 150,000 units, the plant began production of the Kia EV3 in early 2024, with the EV4 set to follow in 2025. This facility represents a significant transformation from an old internal combustion engine plant, emphasising sustainability and innovative manufacturing processes, such as water-based painting and automation.

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Kia has already started production of the EV3 from early 2024 at its new manufacturing facility, which will be joined by other EV models like the EV4. The manufacturing plant is spread over 60,000 square metres and has been transformed with an investment of KRW 401.6 billion. Since Kia aims to set this new manufacturing facility as a hub for its global EV lineup, we can expect Kia launching the models manufactured at the new facility in the Indian market too.

“The completion of the Kia Gwangmyeong EVO Plant solidifies Kia’s first step as an EV leader following the company’s brand relaunch in 2021. With the goal of providing sustainable mobility solutions, we will lead innovation in the EV market and fulfil our responsibilities in helping to deliver a sustainable future”, said Jun Young Choi, Executive Vice President and Head of Domestic Production Division at Kia, during a welcoming speech at the event.  

Also Read: Kia Carens EV spotted in India for the first time — All details

Kia India EV plans

Kia India is on a roll this year, introducing two new offerings in 2024, which includes the flagship EV9 SUV. First showcased as a concept at the 2023 Auto Expo, the EV9 is set to be launched in the Indian market on October 3, alongside the Kia Carnival MPV. While the EV9 will serve as a halo product in the Indian market, Kia is also working on the Carens-based EV, which will boast a MPV bodystyle, while sharing its underpinnings and powertrain with the Hyundai Creta EV.