The Russian Ministry of Transport has proposed a package of measures to regional authorities aimed at boosting the use of electric and hybrid vehicles. The plan envisions several incentives for owners of these vehicles relative to drivers of traditional gasoline or diesel cars, including free passage on toll roads and the elimination of vehicle taxes in some cases. These proposals are part of a cabinet-wide concept to develop electric mobility through 2030. The document also calls for city-level collaboration with EV owners when locating charging stations and suggests that at least 10% of charging spots in public and commercial areas, as well as at petrol stations, be equipped with chargers.
On paid segments of major roads such as the M-4 highway in the Moscow region, electric and hybrid vehicle owners would pass toll points without payment, according to the Ministry. In residential areas, the plan would require slow charging at all parking spaces, with charging up to 80% capacity within two hours. Fast charging stations should be clearly signed, and parking time would be limited near these high-speed ports. Where parking lots exist away from the curb, information boards would indicate the number of available spaces. [Source: Ministry of Transport briefing]
The concept also revises the idea of zero-emission zones, where vehicles powered by internal combustion engines would be barred from entry. While traffic regulations have long included signs indicating such zones, they have not been actively deployed. In dense urban areas with heavy traffic and stricter environmental demands, the ministry also recommends building infrastructure for the collection, storage, and disposal of used batteries. [Source: Kommersant article]
Reports indicate that more than 100 new charging stations were installed in Moscow under the Energy of Moscow program, with another 150 planned by year’s end. Charging at these stations is free, and nearby parking is reserved for electric vehicles. The plan also includes the development of “electro hubs” featuring both fast and slow charging options, and even ultra-fast stations for electric buses. In St. Petersburg, there are already 82 charging stations, and projections show 80 more by 2025, as the city continues to expand its electric-vehicle footprint with more than 500 registered cars. [Source: regional press summaries]
- Recently, an electric version appeared in the Lada Granta lineup.
- Additional details can be found in public updates on Odnoklassniki under the program umbrella.