Motorinvest Reveals i-Jet and i-Van Plans While Detailing Local Production Moves
Motorinvest’s managing partner, Andrey Reznikov, outlined a clear timetable for the i-Jet electric crossover. Production is set to begin under the Evolute brand in August, with first deliveries anticipated in September this year, according to statements shared with TASS during Innoprom-2023. The plan signals a broader push into electric mobility and aims to combine design with scalable manufacturing in the region. [Citation: TASS]
Alongside the i-Jet, Motorinvest is preparing to introduce a seven-seat minivan called the i-Van. The company expects the new model to help satisfy growing demand in the family and multi-purpose vehicle segment by the end of the third quarter. This move reflects a strategy to diversify the lineup while leveraging existing manufacturing capabilities.
Reznikov reaffirmed the upcoming schedule, noting that production for the i-Jet is anticipated to start in August and sales to commence in September. The cadence illustrates Motorinvest’s intention to accelerate product introductions and capitalize on demand windows in key regional markets. [Citation: TASS]
In other industry movements, the Lipetsk region continues to be a focal point for automotive assembly. In July, Changan highlighted a localization facility in Russia that positions it as a competitor to Lada Vesta. Historically, Changan models have found production footing at the Motorinvest facility in Lipetsk, where the CS35 compact crossover began production in 2016 followed by the CS75 mid-size crossover. This history underscores the area’s role as a garment for the broader market and a test bed for cross-brand collaboration and competition. [Citation: Industry reports]
The Eado DT sedan, featuring a 1.6-liter engine delivering 136 horsepower and 160 Nm of torque, is equipped with a four-speed Aisin Seiki automatic transmission. Its wheelbase measures 2610 mm, and when the aggregate dimensions are considered, the Eado DT sits in close competition with the Lada Vesta, highlighting a class of compact sedans with contemporary powertrains and styling cues. This positioning reflects ongoing market dynamics and the drive for practical, efficient family vehicles in the mid-size segment. [Citation: Manufacturer specs]
Earlier discussions around market offerings also touched on a prominent pickup truck featured by socialbites.ca as the KingKong, noted as a major addition to the Russian pickup market. This reference helps illustrate the evolving preferences within the region for rugged, utility-focused vehicles that can handle diverse driving conditions. [Citation: socialbites.ca]