In March 2022, a strategic investment agreement was reached involving the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade, the Lipetsk region, and Motorinvest. Through this agreement, Motorinvest commenced the production of the I-Pro electric sedan, featuring a 53 kW traction battery, a driving range of up to 420 kilometers under the NEDC cycle, an electric motor rated at 150 horsepower, and a peak torque of 260 Newton-meters. The project symbolized a deliberate push to expand domestic electric vehicle capabilities and reduce dependence on imported models, aligning with broader industrial policy goals in Russia at the time.
As the Russian automotive market faced headwinds following the exit of several foreign manufacturers, authorities sought to diversify the product lineup and stabilize demand. A notable development was the inclusion of Evolute vehicles in the government program offering preferential car loans. The I-Pro, alongside future domestically produced electric vehicles, was positioned to receive a substantial price concession—an indicative 35% discount on the vehicle’s cost—announced by Denis Manturov and reflecting the government’s aim to stimulate local production and adoption of electric mobility.
The initiative was anticipated to create meaningful employment in the Lipetsk region, with estimates suggesting around 1.3 thousand new jobs tied to the project. In addition to job creation, the program was expected to generate incremental tax contributions to the regional budget, contributing to local fiscal stability while supporting the broader push toward domestic automotive manufacturing and electrification initiatives.
Preliminary pricing for the I-Pro sedan was reported at approximately 2,990,000 rubles. Initial market targets highlighted fleet buyers, particularly taxi companies, as a primary customer segment. The vehicle is described as sharing design cues with a Chinese counterpart, the Dongfeng Aeolus E70. In terms of physical dimensions, the I-Pro measures around 4,680 millimeters in length, placing it in the same class as compact sedans such as the Hyundai Elantra and the Volkswagen Jetta, and aligning with North American expectations for mid-size entry vehicles.
Beyond the I-Pro sedan, the company announced plans to broaden its product line with additions such as the i-Joy crossover, the i-Jet crossover coupe, and the i-Van minivan. These future models are positioned to expand the domestic EV ecosystem, offering a range of body styles designed to meet diverse consumer and commercial needs while leveraging local manufacturing capabilities and supply chains.