Kia opens Gwangmyeong EVO Plant to boost EV production
- Kia Gwangmyeong EVO Plant, located in South Korea, has been inaugurated as Hyundai Motor Group's first dedicated electric vehicle manufacturing facility.
- The plant has an annual production capacity of 150,000 units and will produce the Kia EV3 and EV4 models, with production of the EV3 already underway.
- This facility marks a significant step in Kia's commitment to sustainable mobility and aims to position Gwangmyeong City as a central hub for the electric vehicle industry in Korea.
On September 26, 2024, Kia Corporation celebrated the opening of the Gwangmyeong EVO Plant, marking a pivotal moment for Hyundai Motor Group as it establishes its first dedicated electric vehicle manufacturing facility. Located at Kia Autoland Gwangmyeong, this new plant has been designed to meet the growing demand for electric vehicles, with an impressive annual production capacity of 150,000 units. The facility will initially focus on the production of the Kia EV3, followed by the EV4 in 2025. The transformation of the Gwangmyeong Plant 2, originally built in 1987 for internal combustion engine vehicles, represents a significant investment of KRW 401.6 billion. This redevelopment reflects Kia's commitment to evolving its manufacturing capabilities to align with global trends towards electrification. The new plant incorporates advanced manufacturing techniques, including water-based painting and automated processes, to enhance production efficiency and sustainability. Kia's Executive Vice President, Jun Young Choi, emphasized the importance of this facility in leading the company towards a sustainable future and fulfilling its responsibilities in the electric vehicle market. The Mayor of Gwangmyeong City, Seung Won Park, also highlighted the plant's potential to boost the local economy and create jobs, positioning the city as a key player in Korea's electric vehicle industry. Overall, the Gwangmyeong EVO Plant signifies Kia's strategic shift towards electrification and its ambition to become a leader in the future of mobility, setting the stage for a new era in automotive manufacturing.