The UAZ-452, commonly nicknamed the bread car, is moving toward an electric future as Crimea becomes the focal point for a new propulsion project. A production version of the UAZ-452 electric vehicle is planned to be unveiled in the summer of 2023, signaling a shift for a classic Soviet-era van into modern, low-emission mobility. The project aims to combine reliable, rugged chassis with contemporary electric power to serve regional needs while exploring scalable industrial potential across the broader fleet segment in North America and the CIS markets.
Leading the research and development effort is Elkafa Research and Production Enterprise, working under the oversight of Mikhail Demuria, who chairs the Rutranelectro Association for the Development of Electric Vehicles. The collaboration focuses on designing a complete components suite that enables the conversion of existing UAZ platforms into fully electric configurations. The initiative emphasizes a practical pathway from conventional internal combustion systems to electric drivetrains, leveraging existing manufacturing capabilities and supplier networks to minimize risk and time-to-market for new vehicle variants.
In this program, the powertrain for the bread will be entirely electric, delivering smooth, quiet operation and the typical instant torque associated with modern EVs. The plan also includes an option to equip the vehicle with an auxiliary fuel generator, a feature designed to extend driving range when charging infrastructure is sparse or unavailable. This hybrid approach aims to provide dependable performance in remote sections of Crimea and similar terrains, addressing real-world use scenarios where charging opportunities may be limited during longer trips or harsh weather conditions.
Extensive field validation will guide the development process, with tests conducted under a range of conditions that reflect the diverse geography of Crimea, from mountainous routes to expansive steppes. These trials are intended to help engineers evaluate battery endurance, energy recuperation capabilities, thermal management, and overall reliability across varied climates and elevations, ensuring that the final configuration delivers consistent operation for potential customers and fleet operators across North America and Europe as the program scales.
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Participants are invited to engage in the “Behind the Wheel” Grand Prix poll to help identify the most promising car introductions of the year. This interactive voting initiative aims to capture consumer sentiment on new models, technology features, and design directions, contributing to a broader understanding of market preferences and readiness for electrified and hybrid vehicles in the region.
As a thank you for sharing input, a drawing will select three prizes among survey respondents who complete the questionnaire by the stated deadline. The prize distribution will be open to all eligible entrants, with the event running through late February to ensure broad participation and a genuine pulse on user interests.