Russian automaker Evolute is set to begin full-cycle production of its electric SUV, the i-Sky, in August 2026 at its new factory in Lipetsk Oblast. The company also revealed a new all-wheel-drive hybrid version of its i-Space crossover at Innoprom 2026. Unlike previous assembly lines that primarily handled final assembly from imported kits, Evolute’s approach includes full body welding and painting – a major step up for domestic EV manufacturing.
Evolute has been producing vehicles at the Motorinvest plant in Lipetsk since September 2022. Now it’s betting on localizing a highly competitive segment in Russia: compact C-segment SUVs. The segment is crowded with domestic brands, Chinese imports, and hybrids, but increasingly, buyers are looking for real-world savings on fuel rather than just eco-friendly branding.
Evolute i-Sky electric SUV specs
The all-electric Evolute i-Sky packs a 218-horsepower motor and offers a claimed range of up to 424 kilometers (about 263 miles). The battery supports fast charging from 30% to 80% in under 30 minutes, making it a practical choice beyond urban runs – suitable for highway trips too. Inside, a 14.6-inch infotainment screen complements features like a panoramic roof and a 360-degree camera system.
- Electric motor power: 218 hp
- Range: up to 424 km (263 miles)
- Fast charge (30-80%): under 30 minutes
- Infotainment screen: 14.6 inches
- Features: panoramic roof, 360-degree cameras
Evolute i-Space all-wheel-drive hybrid details
The second highlight was the new all-wheel-drive version of the Evolute i-Space hybrid, designed with a sequential hybrid system rather than pure electric drive. This setup promises versatility with a 0-100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration in 7.1 seconds and a combined range of up to 1000 kilometers (621 miles). Evolute also showed front-wheel-drive five- and seven-seat i-Space versions alongside the fully electric i-Joy model.
- Drive: all-wheel drive
- Powertrain: sequential hybrid
- 0-100 km/h: 7.1 seconds
- Combined range: up to 1000 km (621 miles)
The i-Sky’s August 2026 launch date is confirmed, but prices for the i-Sky and the updated i-Space AWD lineup remain undisclosed. Pricing will be critical in this segment, where affordability often determines whether a locally assembled vehicle can compete with Chinese imports. On Russia’s growing crossover and hybrid market, Evolute’s lineup targets buyers prioritizing range and running costs.
What will truly test Evolute’s ambitions is how these models perform in dealerships and on real roads. If the i-Sky launch happens without delay, the brand could solidify its foothold against rivals like Moskvich and imported hybrids promising long ranges without frequent charges. The next few months will reveal whether Evolute can turn its production upgrade into meaningful sales gains in one of Russia’s most competitive automotive segments.