AVTOVAZ unveiled a prototype of the electric Lada e-Largus, while Chinese brands plan to market electric cars in Russia from budget to premium tiers. The electric Moskvich is nearing its market launch, the first cars from the Evolute brand have found buyers, and more.
Yet buyers show limited enthusiasm for electric vehicles. This is evident from the relatively low engagement with articles about such cars on our site. So what’s going on here?
Expert opinion
— An industry perspective on the electric car market and consumer behavior.
For the vast majority of drivers, an electric car remains an unfamiliar topic. Many households operate a single car and replace it infrequently. When the topic turns to electric vehicles, a flood of questions follows: how will winter driving work, where and how to charge, when a battery may need replacement, how to resell it and at what price, and how feasible is a trip to the coast with such a car. In today’s reality an electric car tends to be a local commuter option, best suited for short trips between nearby areas rather than long journeys to distant regions.
One of the main reasons buyers stay away is the price gap. Electric cars can cost 25–40 percent more than comparable petrol models. That price premium discourages many families. If a gas version and an electric version of the same model were priced similarly, more people would consider switching. A private home with convenient charging, regular trips within a village and to a city by train or plane, and cheaper service could make an electric option appealing once subsidies reach higher levels. At present subsidies max out at around nine hundred twenty five thousand rubles, which still leaves a hurdle for many households.
There is a small but growing group of enthusiasts who actively explore electric options. They often choose second-hand models, like older Nissan Leafs, seeking value and environmental benefits. These buyers demonstrate there is some demand within the market, albeit limited.
There are also companies looking to participate in the green transition. For them, electric vehicles offer tangible utility and the potential for reduced operating costs.
Long-term, it is unlikely that electric cars will become the dominant choice overnight. The current distances, climate, relatively cheap fuel, and abundant natural gas mean many households will rely on traditional fuels for decades. Yet the technology is steadily advancing. Every year brings more capable batteries, better charging networks, and smarter upkeep options, which gradually widen the appeal and practicality for a broader audience.
In summary, explosive demand is not on the horizon, but a steady, moderate interest will persist as technology improves and costs align more closely with traditional vehicles.
A note on visual credits:
Photo credit: Depositphotos