Lipetsk Plant Eyes Flexible Vehicle Production, Including Internal Combustion Engine Cars
The Lipetsk region hosts a plant where Evolute electric vehicles are assembled, with the facility now exploring options to broaden its lineup. Reports from TASS cite Sergei Mamontov, the plant’s deputy general director, suggesting that the production outlook remains adaptable and profit-driven.
“Maybe anything is possible, why not? Our production is mobile, so we can retool whenever necessary, and we plan to establish another workshop here. Any venture that brings in profit; why not?” Mamontov commented when asked about the potential introduction of internal combustion engine cars at the facility. The executive stressed that timing and model range for such a transition would depend on market demand, and he declined to provide a schedule for the start of ICE production or specify which models could appear first. (TASS)
Mamontov underscored that a small-unit car assembly approach could be adopted at the plant if sales volume supports it. The decision would hinge on the demand for specific configurations rather than pursuing production for a limited count. In his view, there is little merit in expanding production solely to reach modest quantities; the focus would be on sustained customer interest and profitability. (TASS)
Since 2022, the Lipetsk site has been building electric vehicles under the Evolute brand, beginning with the Evolute i-Pro sedan. The i-Joy crossover later joined the assembly line, marking a phase of growth for the plant’s EV program. In November 2023, the i-Sky crossover entered production, signaling a broader array of offerings for the Evolute family. (TASS)
Earlier updates referenced in Moscow highlighted the unveiling of a prototype Russian supercar, underscoring the facility’s ambition to diversify beyond its electric lineup. The evolving strategy reflects a broader industrial push in the region to adapt manufacturing capabilities toward flexible, multiproduct operations that can respond to shifting market demands. (TASS)
Industry observers note that the Lipetsk plant’s potential shift toward internal combustion engine production would represent a strategic reallocation of capacity. The decision would likely weigh factors such as supply chains, component availability, and the economics of retooling against current demand for both EVs and traditional engine-powered vehicles. The plant’s leadership has repeatedly emphasized a results-driven approach, prioritizing profitability and scalable production models as the core driver behind any diversification efforts. (TASS)
In the broader context, Evolute’s progress in Lipetsk appears to be part of a measured effort to establish a domestic vehicle platform capable of adapting to a range of propulsion technologies. The company has demonstrated a willingness to adjust its manufacturing footprint in response to market signals, a stance that may influence regional employment, supplier relationships, and technology transfer within Russia’s automotive sector. (TASS)