In the period from January to June 2024, the car manufacturer near Žilina produced more than 188,000 vehicles, which represents an increase of almost 3,000 vehicles (+1.59%) compared to the first half of 2023.
During the company’s summer shutdown, the automaker will also prepare for the production of new electric models
The Sportage accounted for 63% of total production, with hybrid (HEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions accounting for more than a third of total production. Ceed with its four versions (Ceed, Ceed Sportswagon, ProCeed, XCeed) accounted for the remaining 37% of production in the first half of this year.
The goal is to fulfill the plan of 343,000 cars by the end of the year. Approximately 250 employees will ensure the preparation of the lines for their smooth commissioning after the rest of the entire factory.
Kia Slovakia confirms its export orientation, exporting vehicles to 79 countries in the first half of the year. As in previous years, the main export markets were Great Britain (16.5%), Germany (10.6%), Spain (10%), Poland and Italy (7.6% each).
The company also announced that the traditional summer shutdown will be held in the last week of July and the first week of August 2024. This will be used to implement significant technological improvements and preparations for future production. The plant for the production of body parts should replace 4 palletizing robots. The sheet metal plant will undergo a generational renovation of 29 welding and manipulation robots, while the production lines will be modified for the production of new and electric models. A new feature will be the installation of an aluminum front hood. In the paint shop, 8 robots for applying the base color will be replaced and new technologies will be installed that will enable the application of a new type of matte paint. The assembly plant is preparing for the introduction of a new electric model through modifications and adaptations on the production lines.
All investments and improvements underline Kia Slovakia’s commitment to continuous employee health protection, improvement of ergonomics and safety at work, modernization of production processes and preparation for future challenges in the field of electromobility.
The car manufacturer takes care of the safety and health of its employees in the summer heat not only through the distribution of ionic drinks, but especially through the operation of air conditioners directly in the production of assembly, engine shops and body parts. Also, all rest areas in production and non-production rooms are air-conditioned.
During this period, the company also pays bonuses to employees. In June, it paid them their 13th salary in the amount of 75% to 110% of the basic salary, depending on the length of service, and in July the employees were paid a three-month bonus in the amount of 320 euros.
Source: www.magazinauto.com
