Motorinvest has secured a Vehicle Type Approval for the Evolute i-Joy crossover, marking a formal entry onto public roads and enabling buyers to register the vehicle with traffic authorities. The company confirmed that production is scheduled to begin at its Lipetsk region facility in the third quarter of 2022, signaling a concrete step forward in bringing this electrified crossover to market.
In terms of size, the Evolute i-Joy is compact, aligning roughly with models like the Hyundai Creta. What sets it apart in the crowded small crossover segment is a strong electric powertrain paired with a notable driving range. Motorinvest has outlined several key specifications that highlight the model’s performance and charging capabilities. The electric motor delivers about 130 kW, equivalent to roughly 176 horsepower, with a torque figure around 225 Newton-meters. The battery pack is described as 53 kWh, supporting swift recharging through the CCS-2 interface. From a charge level of 30% to 80%, the battery can be replenished in approximately 30 minutes, enabling shorter stops to keep daily use efficient
The Evolute i-Joy draws its design inspiration from the Chinese electric crossover DFSK Glory E3, establishing a lineage that connects to established compact electric models while allowing room for regional adaptation and tuning. The Lipetsk plant is planned to invest a substantial sum for the production of Evolute electric vehicles over the coming eleven years, with an overall budget of about 13 billion rubles. The broader plan for the facility includes producing five different models, comprising a sedan, a minivan, and three crossovers, aiming to achieve annual output in excess of 100,000 electric vehicles.
Details regarding the final retail price have not been disclosed yet. Motorinvest has indicated that the crossover will be introduced to the market soon, with a preview expected by the end of August 2022 and retail availability anticipated in the autumn season. This timing aligns with a growing trend toward expanding electric vehicle options across North American markets, where consumers are increasingly prioritizing efficiency, rapid charging, and urban-friendly dimensions when evaluating new EVs for personal use or small-business fleets. An official rollout plan may include regional showings and test-drive opportunities in major Canadian and U.S. cities as part of a broader launch strategy, subject to regulatory approvals and market conditions.
For buyers and enthusiasts tracking electric mobility developments, the Evolute i-Joy represents a notable entry from a mid-size European-inspired program produced in Russia. The model promises a balance of practical range, quick charging, and a compact footprint suitable for urban environments while preserving the performance cues expected from modern EV crossovers. As with many new entries in this category, the true price, available trims, packaging, and after-sales support will be clarified as production scales and market demand becomes clearer. Reports from industry observers and press briefings suggest a measured approach to the rollout, with incremental updates as production milestones are met and dealer networks expand to support customers in North America and other regions.
Citations: Motorinvest official statements and subsequent industry briefings provide the basis for these specifications and rollout plans. Observers will be watching closely how the i-Joy adapts to local charging standards, safety certifications, and warranty programs as it enters varied regulatory environments across North America.