Russia’s e-Neva project and factory plans unfold amid industrial shifts
The e-Neva line of electric vehicles is being developed by Almaz-Antey, a prominent Russian defense company, with plans centered on production in St. Petersburg. The project has drawn attention to potential use of the former Toyota facility in the city, where a new assembly line could eventually operate. This update comes as part of broader discussions about domestic car manufacturing and strategic partnerships within Russia’s automotive sector.
According to official remarks, the goal is to bring the E-Neva to market in 2026. The information was shared in reports from national news agencies, reflecting ongoing coordination between Almaz-Antey and government ministries to align industrial capacity with vehicle production ambitions. The plan envisions the old Toyota plant serving as a site for vehicle assembly, with the timing pinned to a formal production schedule and regulatory approvals.
Additionally, officials noted that before the 2026 target, there could be interim arrangements to organize assembly for another automaker at the same facility. These options are described as a way to maintain momentum and test manufacturing readiness, ensuring the factory remains productive while the E-Neva development progresses.
In late spring, authorities announced that Petersburg would come under the management of a state subsidiary for automotive research and manufacturing. Earlier, Toyota had completed a staffing reduction process at its local operations, signaling a broader shift in the local automotive ecosystem and the government’s active involvement in shaping the region’s industrial landscape.
These developments reflect the evolving strategy of Russia’s automotive sector, balancing defense-linked technology with consumer vehicle production. The E-Neva project underscores efforts to leverage domestic facilities and build a resilient supply chain, while regulatory and corporate adjustments continue to influence the rollout timeline and manufacturing logistics. The conversations surrounding the Toyota plant illustrate how state-led planning and private sector collaboration are interacting to chart a path for new electric vehicles in Russia. The coverage remains grounded in official statements and industry reporting that track the progress toward a 2026 launch window and the practical steps necessary to realize it.