In two days, a new chapter begins for Motorinvest as it moves into production of Evolute electric vehicles, marking a significant milestone in the regional automotive landscape. The factory production schedule is set for September 28, 2022, unfolding in the Lipetsk region. The facility sits in the village of Grebenkino, within the Krasninsky district, where a new era of domestically produced electric mobility is taking shape. The first model slated to roll off the line is the Evolute i-Pro sedan, a compact four-door that aims to combine accessible pricing with practical electric capability for daily urban driving.
The Evolute i-Pro is positioned as the brand’s most affordable offering. Its price point is currently announced at 2,990,000 rubles, reflecting an emphasis on value and broad market appeal. The sedan is designed to showcase Evolute’s core competencies in battery technology, efficient electric powertrains, and cost-conscious manufacturing, delivering a balanced package for customers seeking an entry point into electric vehicles without compromising essential comfort and reliability.
Beyond the i-Pro, the company’s lineup is set to expand with additional models that align with evolving consumer preferences in Russia and neighboring markets. A second model, the i-Joy crossover, will broaden the brand’s footprint in the growing crossover segment. The i-Joy corresponds to the Russian-market version of the Dongfeng Fengon E3, offering a practical blend of space, efficiency, and contemporary styling that is well-suited to family needs and urban living. The price for the i-Joy is slated to start from 3,490,000 rubles, a figure that reflects its larger footprint and added versatility compared with the sedan.
Another addition to the lineup is the i-Jet cross coupe, a sporty interpretation aligned with the DFSK Seres 5 in the global model family. This model is expected to share the same affordable pricing strategy as its peers, with a starting price around 3,490,000 rubles, underscoring Evolute’s commitment to offering a cohesive range of electric options across different body styles while maintaining value for money. The company envisions a varied lineup that can cater to diverse tastes, from compact sedans to more muscular crossovers and dynamic coupes, all powered by electric propulsion and a focus on daily practicality and long-term savings from lower running costs.
In addition to these core models, there is a plan to introduce a family-oriented option in the near term: a minivan labeled i-Van. This model would extend Evolute’s reach into the passenger-van segment, emphasizing spacious interiors, versatile seating configurations, and the convenience expected by larger households and shuttle-style operations. The i-Van is anticipated to be priced around the same level as the other Evolute models, aligning with the brand’s strategy of offering accessible electric mobility across multiple vehicle types.
Alongside the product strategy, buyers of Russian electric vehicles, including Evolute models, can benefit from a government incentive program that supports the transition to electric transport. Eligible buyers may receive a 25 percent discount on qualifying purchases, subject to a cap of 625,000 rubles. This means the effective price of Evolute vehicles can be reduced by up to 625,000 rubles, presenting a meaningful financial incentive for households and businesses evaluating an electric vehicle purchase. The incentive structure is designed to accelerate market adoption of electric mobility while ensuring affordability for a broad segment of customers who are considering new vehicle options within this growing segment of the market.
From a strategic perspective, Energized by a domestic manufacturing footprint and a growing ecosystem of charging infrastructure and maintenance services, Evolute aims to emphasize cost efficiency, local production benefits, and responsive after-sales support. The Lipetsk region offers logistical advantages, including access to regional supply chains and a workforce with experience in vehicle assembly, color and trim customization, and quality control processes. By aligning a diverse product portfolio with attractive pricing and government incentives, Evolute seeks to position itself as a credible option for customers who want practical, value-driven electric mobility without sacrificing the everyday usability that drivers expect.
As production commences, observers will be watching closely to see how the Evolute lineup resonates with buyers who are navigating a rapidly evolving market for electric vehicles in Russia and nearby markets. The combination of a compact sedan, a mid-size crossover, a sportier cross coupe, and a versatile minivan promises to offer a broad spectrum of choices for households, families, and commercial fleets alike. The ultimate test will be real-world performance, reliability, and the continued ability to deliver on the brand promise of affordable, accessible electric transportation that supports sustainable mobility goals across communities.