PSA and Kia forecast higher output at Slovakian facilities for 2016

Kia is expecting to build more than 338,000 units, PSA expecting 5% y/y uplift in output

Groupe PSA and Kia are both forecasting higher outputs for their plants in Slovakia this year as a result of the current robust demand pattern in the European market, which both plants serve. According to a Reuters report, Kia is expecting to build more than the record 338,000 units that it managed in 2015, largely thanks to the popularity of the new Sportage that is made at the facility. Commenting during a press conference at the plant, Kia Slovakia President Eek-Hee Lee said, "We expect another record year. The Russian market is difficult right now but we are trying to expand our markets to western Europe." PSA is also expecting a 5% y/y uplift in output of its cars at its Slovakian plant in Trnava which builds the Peugeot 208 and the Citroën C3 Picasso MPV, with the facility turning out 303,000 units last year. PSA also operates the TPCA joint venture (JV) plant in Slovakia with Toyota, which builds the Peugeot 108, Citroën C1 and Toyota Aygo.