Kia analyzes the possibility of producing electric cars in Europe: the manufacturer wants to reduce its dependence on imports from Asia

[Angrry.exe™]

Kia examines the possibility of producing electric cars in Europe, aiming to reduce dependence on South Korea's imports, but also to have a lower average of emissions. Kia has a single European factory in Slovakia, where it produces the Ceed and Sportage models.

Kia announced a possible reorganization of the business so as to reduce the risks of potential supply chain problems between Europe and Asia.

In this context, Kia is thinking of producing electric cars in Europe to reduce its dependence on South Korean imports, but also for a lower average of emissions. The statement was made by Emilio Herrera, Kia's operations manager in Europe.

"Electricity production in Europe would minimize the risks of disruption of supply. We know that our suppliers, LG Chemical and SK Innovation, are looking for some production options in Hungary, the Czech Republic and Slovakia, "Herrera said.

Kia official says the big problem is not selling electric cars, but bringing them from Asia to the European market. Kia Soul EV last year saw higher sales in Europe than diesel and petrol variants combined.

According to Herrera, Kia has to sell at least 32,000 electric cars annually by 2021, so as to avoid EU emissions offenses.