The week opened with the introduction of Evolute i-PRO electric sedans, now being assembled at the Motorinvest facility in Lipetsk under a license from Dongfeng. The launch marks a notable moment in the domestic automotive scene, as a domestic plant becomes the hub for an electric model with clear ties to a major Chinese automaker. The move signals an increasing push by national manufacturers to expand offerings in the growing segment of electric passenger cars, while also highlighting the evolving role of local production in meeting demand for greener mobility. Consumers and industry watchers alike are watching how this localized assembly translates into price stability, supply reliability, and service networks across the country, particularly in regions where new electric models are just beginning to take root.
Potential buyers can find Evolute i-PRO at a broad network of authorized dealers including Rolf, Panavto, Major, Avilon, Klyuchavto, KAN Auto, Avtoliga, Avtomir, Avtodel, and other established car networks. The announced price stands at 2,990,000 rubles, a figure that sits at the crossroads of affordability for a new electric sedan and the premium often associated with novelty in the electric segment. Analysts and retailers are analyzing how this price point, coupled with local assembly, affects consumer perception, especially among those weighing the benefits of domestic production against the entrenched preferences for familiar brands and after-sales ecosystems. The price discussion also takes into account typical financial incentives, tax reliefs, and potential future programs that could influence total ownership costs for a broad cross-section of buyers across Russia and neighboring markets in the region.
To gauge public sentiment, readers were invited to participate in a survey that presented a net pricing scenario, deliberately excluding certain benefits that may only apply to a limited group of citizens. At the time of publication, more than 1,100 respondents offered their views, with about 2% indicating a definite willingness to purchase Evolute under current conditions. The majority, amounting to roughly 70%, expressed cautious interest, acknowledging the vehicle’s appeal while signaling hesitation to commit personally in the near term. A substantial minority, just under 30%, indicated they preferred to wait for full-scale testing and comprehensive reviews before making a final decision. These responses shed light on consumer risk assessment, the emphasis placed on real-world reliability, and the importance of transparent long-term data in shaping purchase plans for new electric models that blend foreign technology with domestic manufacturing. The feedback landscape suggests a careful market approach, where early adopters may help validate a new product while the broader audience seeks clarity on durability, charging infrastructure, residual value, and ongoing maintenance expectations in the evolving EV landscape.