The Lipetsk region will become home to a new electric vehicle production site at the Motorinvest facility, backed by a strategic investment agreement. Recently, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, together with the Lipetsk regional government and Motorinvest, formalized this plan through a SPIC 2.0 contract.
Under the agreement, capital expenditure of 13 billion rubles is scheduled over an 11-year horizon to establish and expand electric vehicle production. Plans include a so‑called screwdriver assembly phase, with welding and painting lines being introduced progressively while the assembly line undergoes modernization to boost efficiency and output. This gradual upgrade signals a long-term shift toward more integrated manufacturing in the region.
The electric vehicles to be produced in Lipetsk will carry the Sokon nameplate from a Chinese partner, but in Russia they will be marketed under the Evolute brand. Reports indicate a broad model lineup, featuring a sedan, a minivan, and three crossovers across different segments, designed to appeal to a wide range of buyers.
Performance figures point to a power range from 150 horsepower up to 693 horsepower, with battery capacities spanning 53 to 88 kWh. These specifications are aimed at delivering a competitive driving range, with estimates suggesting up to 750 kilometers on a single charge under favorable conditions.
Pricing details have not yet been disclosed. However, given the scale of investment and the leverage of battery costs alongside government incentives, expectations are that Evolute models could align in price with conventional gasoline vehicles within their class. This would make the new lineup attractive to buyers weighing upfront cost against long-term operating expenses. (Vedomosti)
Analysts note that the Lipetsk project fits into a broader push toward domestic EV assembly in Russia, combining international technology with local manufacturing capabilities. The collaboration is positioned to create jobs, stimulate supplier networks, and accelerate the transfer of battery and powertrain know-how to the region. While the project is still in its early stages, the framework and investment signals reflect a serious commitment to expanding electric mobility within the country. (Vedomosti)