Kia Plans to Go Green, Commits to Having Only EVs in Key Global Markets by 2040

By 2045, the South Korean automaker strikes to achieve carbon neutrality and become a sustainable brand. This roadmap includes fully electrifying its vehicle lineup in Europe by 2035 and major global markets by 2040.

Announced at the company's "Kia Sustainability Movement" virtual presentation on November 11th, the path to a green future starts with transitioning from ICE-powered vehicles to a fully electrified lineup. Therefore, Kia announced plans to have only electric cars on the European roads by 2035. Not only that, but from 2040, the automaker also aims to see just EVs in key markets around the globe.

To achieve carbon neutrality by 2045, the company will minimize carbon emissions associated with the parts supply stage and develop a monitoring system for its suppliers until 2022. The data gathered from this system will be used to propose solutions to reduce emissions. In addition, as part of the manufacturing process, the 'green steel,' which requires limited fossil fuels in its production, will also play a significant role in the brand's strategy.

Moreover, plastic will also be reused by up to 20 percent by 2030. By implementing various recycling procedures, spent batteries and plastic will be reused. Kia also intends to conduct pilot studies on second-life battery energy storage systems beginning next year. The plan is to cut carbon emissions by one percent every year and slowly transition to sustainability.

Kia has already started to take steps toward that goal. The automaker's Concept EV9, which was recently teased ahead of its debut, represents the company's approach to achieving carbon neutrality. For the SUV's design, Kia took inspiration from nature. Moreover, on the interior it used upcycled materials made from ocean waste.

The Concept EV9 previews Kia's next model in the dedicated BEV range, which will be built on the E-GMP architecture and will take after the EV6. More details about the new SUV will be revealed upon its debut, which is set to take place on November 17th at the Los Angeles Convention Center.