Kia launches hybrid production in Slovakia plant

Kia Motors Slovakia, a carmaker based in the northern city of Žilina, has begun production of plug-in hybrids. Following the successful production launch of the Ceed Sportswagon a few months ago, the South Korean car manufacturer has started making another plug-in hybrid, XCeed, at its Žilina facility. 

“These two models represent the next important stage for the Kia company when we introduce a modern power train of a new generation to our broader range of vehicles,” said Kia Motors Europe CEO Emilio Herrera.

He added sales of the Ceed model experienced a year-on-year increase of 46 percent in 2019, and Herrera expects the sales will go up thanks to new electrified models. The new XCeed PHEV model will go on sale in Europe in the second half of 2020.

Both plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models, XCeed and Sportswagon are produced solely in the Žilina plant, which is Kia’s only manufacturing facility in Europe.

Sportswagon PHEV can drive up to 60 km (37.2 miles) without producing any emissions. XCeed can achieve a similar goal, 58 km (36 miles).

The car manufacturer produced 344,000 vehicles last year. The plant in Žilina opened its gate in 2017.

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