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The AK-47 Rifle Manufacturer, Kalashnikov, Is Now Eyeing the Electric Car Industry and Promises to Rival Market Leader Tesla
The Russian company Kalashnikov is best known for its AK-47 model rifles and military equipment, but it is also involved in the automotive sector, developing its own electric cars. The four-door electric vehicle Kalashnikov Izh UV-4 made its first appearance in 2018 in prototype form, but a set of recently surfaced patent images suggests a possible new production version, alongside a more compact two-door version with three wheels, confirming its debut in the electric sector to rival Tesla.
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Illustrative Model of the Kalashnikov Izh UV-4 Prototype – Credits: Techradar -
Illustrative Model of the Kalashnikov Izh UV-4 Prototype – Credits: Techradar -
Illustrative Model of the Kalashnikov Izh UV-4 Prototype – Credits: Techradar -
Kalashnikov Prototype – Credits: Techradar -
First Model Manufactured by AK-47 Manufacturer Kalashnikov in 2018 – Credits: Techradar
Kalashnikov’s history with electric cars began in 2018 when the company unveiled the retro-style Electric CV-1 concept, while a spokesperson declared its interest in competing with Tesla. The electric prototype Izh UV-4 emerged later that same year, with a taxi variant debuting at an event in 2019 in Moscow.
The latest images that appeared at the Russian patent office reveal that the UV-4 has not changed much, maintaining the strange shape that makes it look like an oversized Renault Twizy, with exposed wheels and military-style doors.
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The vehicle has a small footprint measuring 3.4 m in length, 1.5 m in width, and 1.7 m in height. The equipment is expected to be basic but will still include air conditioning, heating, a digital dashboard, an infotainment screen, and adjustable suspension.
The New Vehicle from the Russian Manufacturer Promises Solar Panels and Impressive Range
Previous reports from the company suggested a power output of up to 67 hp (50 kW / 68 PS) allowing a top speed of 80 km/h (50 mph) thanks to its low weight of 650 kg (1,433 pounds). Kalashnikov has not revealed battery numbers, but in 2019, they claimed it was sufficient for a range of 150 km (93 miles).
Another advantage is the “low risk of fire and explosion in case of an accident,” which was mentioned in the official press release for the taxi variant. Moving on to the next unnamed vehicle, it showcases a design similar to the UV-4 but with significantly shorter body and wheelbase, and most importantly, featuring one less wheel on the rear axle.
The three-wheeled electric vehicle seems to share the front with its four-wheeled sibling but has a more rounded shape and no doors, leaving the cabin exposed. Inside, there is room for two passengers and some luggage. It also shares the same dashboard layout with the UV-4, but this one comes with a solar roof.
The UV-4 Model Is the Manufacturer’s Promise to Compete with Its Rivals
Kalashnikov has not provided a timeline on the launch of its electric vehicles in the market, but since we have seen full-size prototypes over the last three years, we would not be surprised if an official announcement emerged in the coming months.
It is reported that the Kalashnikov UV-4 will likely be the Russians’ mainstay in the electric vehicle world, which is currently dominated by the U.S. Tesla, European brands like Mercedes, Volkswagen, and Renault, South Korea’s Hyundai, and several local Chinese players. It is unclear when the UV-4 will enter the production cycle, if it ever does, but Kalashnikov is aiming and may be ready to fire.
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