The Kaliningrad Avtotor facility is set to pilot a program that replaces traditional internal combustion engines with electric motors in passenger vehicles. The initiative, disclosed through a broad industry report, outlines a concerted effort to redefine powertrains for existing auto fleets. The project envisions a national-scale collaboration with government support to accelerate the shift from gasoline to electric propulsion, particularly by supplying complete electric motor kits to the market and enabling retrofits for vehicles already on the road. This approach focuses on upgrading the drivetrain and transmission together, delivering a turnkey solution that minimizes downtime and maintains essential performance characteristics that drivers expect. The aim is to demonstrate the feasibility of converting conventional cars to battery-powered operation, while also scaling up domestic production of essential electric components. In the initial phase, the plant plans to roll out a limited number of converted vehicles, with expectations that these conversions will be completed in the upcoming spring. The fleet mix is expected to include several vehicles drawn from the Avtotor lineup, with a notable emphasis on models originally manufactured for the regional and international markets and tailored for efficient electric propulsion. The projected conversion cost is estimated at around 80 thousand rubles per vehicle, covering the installation of the electric motor and the accompanying transmission system as part of a comprehensive upgrade package. This strategy reflects broader industry trends toward in-situ electrification of existing vehicles, reducing the need for fresh vehicle purchases while expanding the availability of domestically produced electric components and repair capabilities.
Separately, industry observers note that a premium Chinese electric brand is preparing to introduce a new crossover during the second quarter of the year. The vehicle, developed within the brand’s Global Design Center located in Gothenburg, Sweden, signals a continued emphasis on cross-border design collaboration and engineering excellence. The project underscores how international partnerships are shaping the next generation of compact and mid-size electric crossovers, combining urban practicality with longer-range performance and a refined driving experience. The announcement aligns with the broader push to expand the global footprint of electrified models, leveraging Scandinavian design influence and European engineering standards to meet diverse markets. As these developments unfold, they illustrate the evolving landscape of electric mobility that resonates with consumers in North America and beyond, where demand for efficient, affordable, and technologically advanced EVs remains strong.