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Prokhorov and French Partner to Launch EVs in Russia

The name of the Russian billionaire Mikhail Prokhorov once again makes the headlines, this time after it has emerged that he intends to bring some electric vehicles in Russia together with a French partner. Of course, not much is known about the subject, but Prokhorov told La Tribune that he will unveil no less than three electric cars in December, with mass production scheduled to commence in 2012.

The Russian billionaire will be backed by French investor Vincent Bollore and, although initially designed for the Russian market, the models might also be launched in other countries across the continent.

"Then we will see. It (the vehicle) will be priced at around $10,000," he was quoted as saying by Reuters.

This is not the first time Prokhorov's name is connected to the EV market. Back in August, Prime Minister Vladimir Putin emphasized that Russia needed an affordable green car just like the ones in some other European markets. That was the moment when Mikhail Prokhorov stepped in and confirmed his support for such a project.

The so-called Yarovit hybrid, designed by Yarovit Motors, might be one of the cars to be launched next month but details are, as we've already mentioned, kept secret.

Meant as an electric hybrid, the car will weigh 1,500 lbs (680 kg) and will be capable of reaching a fuel consumption of only 65 mpg (3.6l/100 km). The hybrid engine (still in the works, possibly an internal combustion engine paired with a 20 hp electric motor) will be capable of propelling the vehicle to 60 mph in between 8 and 14 seconds and give it a top speed of 74 mph (120 km/h).
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About the author: Bogdan Popa
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Bogdan keeps an eye on how technology is taking over the car world. His long-term goals are buying an 18-wheeler because he needs more space for his kid’s toys, and convincing Google and Apple that Android Auto and CarPlay deserve at least as much attention as their phones.
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