23 January, 2026, 09:00 pm

Last modified: 23 January, 2026, 09:00 pm

Kia’s European factory in Zilina, Slovakia, is a combination of robots and humans building cars. The country produces one million cars a year, and the industry is upskilling local workers and students. Its central location, low-carbon fuels and extensive supply network have made the country a global car manufacturing powerhouse. But income disparities, competition and the shift to electric vehicles pose risks.