The team behind the Russian electric vehicle Atom has revealed an updated steering wheel concept that features an integrated display. A recent photo of the wheel, shared by Kama JSC on VKontakte, gives a first look at the revised cockpit hardware.
Compared with the May version, the wheel’s shape and cross section have been redesigned for improved ergonomics. The steering column now houses new switches and additional controls, broadening the range of functions accessible without taking hands off the wheel. The design aims to keep essential vehicle information in the driver’s line of sight, while the wheel itself manages the core on‑road systems. Drivers can operate via a touch mode or compact joystick controls, a layout that mirrors setups seen in high‑performance race cars, including Formula 1 machines, where rapid access to data and controls is crucial.
With the new cockpit, Atom intends to pair the wheel and interface with a powertrain capable of propelling the car from a standstill to 100 km/h in about eight seconds. The projected top speed and range are strong contenders for a city-to‑highway EV, with a target range reaching roughly 500 kilometers on a full charge. The manufacturer also asserts that an eight‑minute fast charge could provide energy for around 100 kilometers of driving, a feature designed to reduce downtime on the road. In addition to the distinctive steering wheel, the Atom will boast gullwing doors with no central pillar, enabling easier entry and exit in tight spaces.
Production is planned to begin at the Moskvich plant in Moscow, with the first electric Atom models anticipated to hit showrooms in the second half of 2025. These timelines were shared during an official briefing that outlined the project’s progression and anticipated milestones.
Earlier statements suggested that the Atom team was pursuing state funding to support development. This funding discussion fits into a broader national effort to build domestic electric vehicle manufacturing capacity in Russia and reduce reliance on imports.
In a broader sense, the Atom program underscores how cockpit design and driver interface innovations are shaping the way electric cars deliver information and control to drivers. The emphasis on a centralized display coupled with streamlined physical controls signals a trend in the automotive sector toward blending digital and tactile input to simplify operation and boost safety on the road. By leveraging existing manufacturing facilities and aiming for rapid charging capabilities, Russian automakers are attempting to balance performance with practical, everyday use. As the market evolves, observers will watch how this combination of innovative cockpit design and a robust powertrain translates into real‑world efficiency, reliability, and consumer enthusiasm. This overview reflects industry observations and company statements as the Atom program advances through its development milestones. [Citation: Atom project communications and industry observers]