During the first three quarters of 2023, the Nissan Leaf hatchback emerged as the most popular electric vehicle in Russia, according to the analytical agency Avtostat. The data reflects a clear preference for compact, familiar EVs among Russian buyers as the market slowly expanded its electric options.
From January through September 2023, Russian consumers bought 4.7 thousand used Nissan Leaf cars. This figure accounted for 60% of the entire used-electric vehicle market in that period, underscoring the Leaf’s enduring appeal and relatively affordable price point in comparison with newer models. Ranking second was the Tesla Model 3, with 804 units sold. The following positions were held by other Tesla models: Model S with 345 units, Model Y with 277 units, and Model X with 211 units, illustrating strong interest across Tesla’s lineup among Russian buyers seeking longer range and modern technology.
The list of the top 10 most popular electric vehicles in Russia through September 2023 also included the Porsche Taycan (181 units), Audi e-tron (137 units), Mitsubishi i-MiEV (119 units), Volkswagen ID.4 (116 units) and BMW i3 (114 units). This mix shows a blend of premium brands and more affordable options, highlighting how the market broadened its range of available EVs while maintaining a core demand for reliable, established models.
Overall, the nine-month results for 2023 recorded total second-hand EV sales in Russia at 8,078 units, representing a 23% increase compared with the first nine months of 2022. This growth signals growing consumer confidence in electric vehicles and a rising willingness to consider pre-owned options as part of the transition to electrified mobility.
Industry observers noted that the Kaliningrad Avtotor plant had announced plans to begin mass production of its own frame-panel electric vehicle, Amber, in the fourth quarter of 2024, signaling a potential shift in domestic manufacturing and supply dynamics for electric cars in the region. This development suggests a broader strategy to expand local EV production beyond imported models and could influence future market composition in the years ahead.
Additionally, public statements from city leadership, including remarks by former Moscow Mayor Sobyanin, emphasized the importance of moving toward electric transportation as part of broader urban mobility and environmental objectives. These discussions reflect a policy environment that could support further adoption of electric vehicles through incentives, infrastructure expansion, and public procurement initiatives.