Like all its competitors, Lada cannot ignore the electric trend. With the e-Niva, here is its very first attempt at an electric car, but for the Russian manufacturer now going it alone, the delay is such that the project does not seem viable.
Since the invasion of Ukraine, the Russian brand Lada can no longer rely on the support of its former partner Renault. The manufacturer can still create an illusion with the launch of its thermal sedan called Iskra, which closely derives from the third version of the Dacia Logan whose mechanics are already considered obsolete in the West.
However, when it comes to electric vehicles, going it alone is not an option, the technological delay is far too significant. Presented in early June at the International Economic Forum in St. Petersburg, the Lada e-Niva Travel cannot hide the age of its components despite a design intended to make it look more modern. Just remember, the base is that of the Chevrolet Niva launched in 2002.
In a way reminiscent of a homemade retrofit, the engineers of the brand have replaced the original 1.7-liter 80 hp gasoline engine with an electric motor that theoretically delivers a power of 120 kW, equivalent to 163 hp, but in reality the constant power is reduced to 81.5 hp. The transfer case and all-wheel drive have been retained. The 34 kWh battery, which was not originally planned for the vehicle’s design – which dates back to the early 1970s – fits in the trunk, condemning a good part of it. The Lada e-Niva has a limited range of 175 km, and charging, provided you find a charging point, which is not an easy task in Russia, requires at least 12 hours.
By failing to keep up with the electric vehicle technology trends, Lada might face challenges in catching up and establishing itself in the competitive electric vehicle market. It remains to be seen how the Russian manufacturer will adapt and innovate to meet the growing demand for electric vehicles worldwide.