Russo-Balt abandoned classic engines in favor of electric cars

As brand representatives explained to Motor magazine, this choice was dictated not only by market trends, but also by the fundamental advantages of electric vehicles – higher efficiency and longer service life compared to classic engines.

“We don’t plan yet. We see prospects in electric vehicles and sequential hybrids,” the press service of Russo-Balt told Motor magazine in response to a request about the possibility of producing cars with classic internal combustion engines (ICE).

The company drew attention to the significantly higher efficiency of electric motors – up to 95%, while for modern internal combustion engines this figure does not exceed 30-35%.

In addition, the operation of classic engines involves frequent and expensive repairs: overhauls may be required every 200-300 thousand kilometers and cost 200-300 thousand rubles.

Owners of cars with internal combustion engines also face the need to regularly change oil, filters, spark plugs, injectors and other components, including fuel equipment, the company explained.

At the beginning of 2026, the revived Russo-Balt auto company presented its debut model – the F200 electric van. The new product will be produced only to order, its starting price is 6.5 million rubles. First deliveries to customers are scheduled for January 2027.

Let us remind you that the original Russo-Balt cars were produced from 1909 to 1918, and during this time several hundred copies were produced.

Earlier it became known when the minibus of the revived Russo-Balt brand will appear.