Russia Sees 75 Percent Rise in Electric Vehicle Numbers Amid Limited Market Growth
The counts of electric vehicles in Russia have risen by about 75 percent over the last year, a surge driven largely by the very low starting base of EVs in the country. This assessment comes from automobile expert Igor Morzharetto, a partner at the analytical agency Avtostat. Morzharetto notes that, despite solid momentum, the total number of electric vehicles in Russia remains around 40 thousand vehicles. He explains that interest is pronounced in larger cities because electric cars represent a global trend. People try them, often like what they experience, and then purchase. In many cases, however, EVs are purchased as a second car for wealthier households. If demand continues to climb, expansion could slow due to a relatively modest charging infrastructure and harsh climate, which can limit practical use to roughly six months of the year before challenges emerge.
Morzharetto highlights several advantages for EV owners. He identifies free parking in Moscow and several other large cities as a key benefit, a policy that can influence adoption among potential buyers. The report reflects data gathered by Avtostat from market participants surveyed on February 24, following import rules tightened in February 2024. The tightening is expected to narrow the range of electric vehicles offered on the Russian market. This trend suggests a market in transition, with supply adjustments likely to accompany evolving consumer interest. Avtostat notes that the dynamic is shaped by policy changes and infrastructure constraints that frame the pace of growth in the EV segment. The broader context places Russia within a global movement toward electrification, where urban centers and policy incentives often drive initial uptake.
Additionally, there have been recent industry mentions of innovation in propulsion technology linked to electric vehicles. A notable development references a unique wheel motor concept intended for electric mobility, signaling ongoing experimentation within the Russian automotive ecosystem. Market observers continue to monitor how such innovations might influence performance, efficiency, and the overall appeal of electric cars in this market environment.