Experts note that electric vehicles may take time to establish a strong presence on Russian roads without a reliable charging network and public acceptance. In a discussion with Public News Service, automotive analyst Vladimir Sazhin outlined several factors shaping the transition from gasoline to electric power.
He pointed out that simply installing charging points in many private spaces would not automatically create a demand spike. If vehicles are left charging at home or in a garden, there is a risk that ownership will cluster around the best locations, leaving other spaces unused and undermining the broader adoption that officials seek. In Sazhin’s view, the real challenge is creating a practical ecosystem where drivers feel confident about charging, range, and reliability across varied daily needs.
Sazhin also emphasized the need to adapt electronic vehicles for harsh winter conditions. He explained that cabin heating consumes significant energy and can noticeably reduce driving range when temperatures drop. This is a key consideration for drivers who rely on EVs throughout the long winter months in many regions of the country.
In January, Otonom Energy Systems, a manufacturer involved in traction batteries for models such as the Lada e-Largus, introduced new Zeta batteries. The company claimed these cells outperform foreign equivalents on several performance metrics and can be integrated into electric buses as well as passenger cars. This development signals ongoing progress in battery technology aimed at improving efficiency, durability, and overall vehicle uptime in challenging operating conditions.
Another notable update highlighted that owners of electric vehicles have recently benefited from an extended warranty period, adding a year of coverage. This extended protection can help new buyers and fleets manage maintenance costs during the early stages of ownership.