Belarus and partners explore an all‑new electric car project
Recent reports indicate that a collaborative effort between Russia, Belarus, and regional tech partners is moving forward with a future vehicle often referred to as the “union car.” The project envisions an electric model built with strong emphasis on localization within the SZAO Belgy region in Belarus, aiming to integrate European-style mobility with local manufacturing capabilities.
AVTOVAZ is identified as a technological partner in the broader plan. The electric version of the Largus could serve as a foundational platform for this new model, leveraging the experience of the Lada Izhevsk facility in Russia as a potential source of expertise and assembly know-how. The arrangement suggests a staged approach where existing platforms are adapted to meet the needs of a future vehicle that aligns with regional industrial goals.
There is also consideration that the program might take a different path. Deputy Prime Minister of Belarus Piotr Parkhomchik has indicated ongoing talks with AVTOVAZ and has planned a forthcoming visit to Tatarstan. The purpose is to discuss broader car production strategies, supply chains, and the potential for additional partners to participate in the development and localization process.
- A startup named KAMA, headquartered in Tatarstan, is already responsible for coordinating the full production of Atom electric vehicles at the Ford plant in Naberezhnye Chelny, showcasing regional capabilities that could inform the union car project.
- Video materials related to these discussions, titled “Behind the Wheel,” are available for viewing on RuTube, providing public insight into the ongoing conversations and test cases that inform decision making.
The initiative underscores a regional strategy to expand electric vehicle manufacturing, tapping into existing industrial assets while exploring new collaborations. Analysts note that success will depend on aligning manufacturing localization, supply chain resilience, and the shared technical standards needed to scale an electric family vehicle for broad markets in the near term. The aims extend beyond one country, reflecting a broader interest in strengthening regional automotive capabilities and creating viable, domestically produced EV options for consumers in Belarus and neighboring regions. [Sputnik attribution]