Evolute i-Space: the first hybrid in the line of the Russian brand

The range of the Evolute brand, which was founded last year to sell Dongfeng cars localized at the Lipetsk Motorinvest enterprise, has another addition – this time the seven-seater Evolute i-Space model is being prepared for its debut. The new i-Space for Russia is a copy of the Dongfeng Fengon E5 crossover, which debuted in its native China a year ago.

The Fengon E5 itself is an upgraded version of the Dongfeng Fengon 580 model of 2021 (Dongfeng has been selling the first generation of the SUV with the index 580 in Russia for several years). The new Evolute has no technical differences from the original hybrid. The i-Space, which is preparing to enter our market, like the Fengon E5, is equipped with a hybrid power plant with a 1.5 naturally aspirated gasoline engine and an electric motor that produces 178 hp. and 300 Nm. The Russian model, like its Chinese clone, has a drive, alas, only on the front axle.

The hybrid system operates in a sequential algorithm: in most modes, the 1.5-liter gasoline unit will recharge a traction battery with a capacity of 17.5 kWh installed under the interior floor. The maximum rated electric range without turning on the gasoline unit reaches 87 kilometers (measurement cycle not specified), the stated acceleration time from zero to 100 km/h for the seven-seater crossover is 7.4 seconds. The maximum range with a charged battery and a full tank should reach 1,150 kilometers, while average fuel consumption according to the WLTC standard is promised at 5.5 l/100 km.

You can also charge the battery from an outlet: Evolute emphasizes that i-Space owners will be able to use free city charging and free parking within the coverage area of ​​the “Parking for Electric Vehicles” signs. The cabin with three rows of seats is designed for seven seats, the maximum trunk volume (with the backrests folded on the second and third rows) reaches 2125 liters.

The company has not yet announced the exact start date of sales, so the ruble price list remains behind the scenes. However, the Evolute brand already has a decent waiting list: the Evolute i-Van minivan, announced last fall, has not yet gone on sale, and the debut of the i-Jet crossover is also delayed. Although Evolute i-Sky, shown in the spring of this year, has already managed to enter the production line in Lipetsk and lead the range of the young brand.