China’s Great Wall Motor Corp. has reportedly patented a bold concept car named WEY V72 in Russia, a move surfaced by the automotive reporting site Automobile News of the Day. The relevant images were added to the Federal Institute of Industrial Property repository, confirming the company’s design exploration and the official filing activity. This development signals a strategic push by the automaker to widen its footprint beyond traditional markets, highlighting a model strategy that blends retro inspiration with modern propulsion ideas. The public record of the V72 patent and the accompanying visuals underscores the ongoing interest in leveraging classic automotive aesthetics to spark consumer curiosity, while positioning Great Wall at the intersection of heritage design and future mobility. The news emerges at a time when many global manufacturers are exploring regional partnerships and intellectual property filings to secure design rights in various jurisdictions, including Russia, where local automotive culture remains deeply nostalgic about past eras of vehicle styling. The presence of the V72 in federal archives suggests scope for future discussions on production feasibility, supply chain localization, and regional market reception, even as official statements from the company remain cautious about timelines and volumes.
The WEY V72 concept is widely recognized for drawing inspiration from the styling language of 1940s automobiles. Its visual identity evokes a vintage Soviet-era vibe, with round headlights and lantern indicators, a pronounced long and elevated hood line, a broad grille, and a generous chrome presence. These design cues create a strong sense of character and nostalgia, while the overall silhouette hints at both elegance and imposing road presence. The homage to mid‑century design is tempered by contemporary detailing and proportionality that would be necessary for modern safety and aerodynamics considerations if the vehicle progresses toward production. Observers note that such a blend could resonate with buyers who appreciate retro charm while demanding modern standards for efficiency, comfort, and technology. If the concept advances toward manufacturing, analysts speculate two potential powertrain routes: a hybrid setup blending internal combustion with electric assistance or a fully electric drive system. Additionally, there is speculation about the inclusion of an all‑wheel‑drive system that would enhance traction and handling across diverse road conditions, aligning the V72 with global demand for versatile, performance‑oriented electric or electrified vehicles. Whether mass production will occur remains uncertain, but the design’s archival roots and contemporary reinterpretation position the V72 as a potentially influential entry in large‑displacement style segments and premium showcases. The path from concept to showroom would involve extensive validation of safety, durability, and market pricing, an endeavor that Chinese manufacturers frequently manage through staged pilots and regional collaborations. The discussion surrounding the V72 reflects broader industry trends toward reviving classic silhouettes while integrating modern propulsion options to meet evolving emission and efficiency goals.
Earlier reports have also highlighted Evolute Motors’ i‑PRO electric car, which is set to be assembled by Lipetsk‑based MotorInvest in Russia, a development that mirrors the same regional interest in electric mobility. The i‑PRO is described as featuring an electric motor delivering around 163 horsepower and torque of about 230 newton‑meters, positioning it as a compact, performance‑oriented option within the growing Russian EV landscape. This parallel coverage illustrates how regional manufacturers are prioritizing electric powertrains, leveraging domestic manufacturing capabilities to broaden product portfolios while addressing local demand for zero‑emission technology. The i‑PRO project, like other EV initiatives in the region, reflects strategic intent to strengthen supply chains, reduce reliance on imports, and accelerate the adoption of electric mobility among Russian consumers. The convergence of these developments—both the V72 concept in Russia and the i‑PRO program—signals a concerted push toward electrification and innovation that could reshape retail offerings, dealer networks, and aftersales support in the near term. Marked industry commentary attributes these moves to a broader push for resilience in regional markets and a belief that modern design, paired with electric propulsion, can capture imagination and investment alike.