The electric vehicle (EV) market in Russia has seen a surge in sales, with 17,805 new EVs sold in 2024, marking a 26.4% increase from the previous year. However, this growth rate has slowed compared to the 4.7-fold increase recorded in 2023. Factors such as higher loan costs, increased customs duties, and recycling fees have put pressure on demand. Despite these challenges, certain regions like Tatarstan have shown strong interest in EVs, particularly models from Zeekr, Volkswagen, BYD, and Tesla. The upcoming launch of the Atom electric car in mid-2025 is eagerly anticipated, promising further market expansion. Government support for charging infrastructure and consumer awareness campaigns are expected to drive future growth.

In 2024, the Russian EV market experienced both positive and negative trends. While sales reached record levels, the pace of growth has decelerated. According to Autostat Info, 18,217 new electric vehicles were sold in Russia last year, representing a 27% increase from 2023. Yet, the share of EVs in total new passenger car sales dropped slightly from 1.3% to 1.1%. This shift can be attributed to several factors, including more expensive loans and rising costs associated with importing EVs. Customs duties and recycling fees have significantly increased, making foreign EVs less attractive to consumers. Additionally, some benefits previously enjoyed by EV owners, such as free travel on toll roads, are now limited to domestically produced models like Evolute, Moskvitch, and Amberauto.

Tatarstan emerged as a hotspot for EV adoption, with nearly 400 new electric vehicles sold in the region in 2024. Zeekr 001 led the sales chart, capturing almost 30% of the local market. Other popular models included Zeekr X, VW ID4, BYD Song, and Tesla Model 3. The capital city of Kazan saw a remarkable fivefold increase in EV registrations over three years, reaching over 800 units by October 2024. Experts attribute this rapid growth to improved charging infrastructure and heightened public awareness about the environmental benefits of electric mobility. Events like the Electromobility festival and Restart Cup races have also contributed to growing interest in EVs among residents.

Despite the challenges, there are signs of optimism within the industry. The production of Russian-made electric cars, such as those by Kaliningrad's Amber Auto and the forthcoming Atom model, offers hope for sustained market expansion. Rustem Galimzyanov, a representative from Restart, an organization promoting EV infrastructure, highlighted the importance of government initiatives in supporting the transition to electric transportation. He noted that while current economic conditions may impact short-term sales, long-term prospects remain bright. Improved purchase conditions, continued subsidies, and enhanced consumer understanding of EV advantages will likely fuel future demand. Moreover, the global trend toward electric mobility, coupled with China's dominance in EV manufacturing, suggests that Russia's market will continue to evolve positively.

Looking ahead, the Russian EV market faces both opportunities and obstacles. The introduction of new models like the Atom electric car in mid-2025 could attract more buyers, especially if supported by favorable government policies. Meanwhile, ongoing improvements in charging networks and public education campaigns will play crucial roles in fostering greater acceptance of electric vehicles. Although current financial barriers may dampen immediate enthusiasm, experts predict that as economic stability returns, the market will experience even more substantial growth. The high demand observed in major cities underscores the potential for widespread adoption of EVs in Russia, driven by their lower operating costs and environmental benefits.