Currently reading: Kalashnikov launches Tesla-rivalling electric car

Russian gun manufacturer says "revolutionary" technology will help its retro-styled CV-1 take on electric rivals

Kalashnikov, the Russian manufacturing giant best known for its AK47 assault rifle, has unveiled the CV-1, a retro-styled 295bhp electric car that it claimed offers Tesla-rivalling performance.

The prototype CV-1 was launched at the Army 2018 International Military Technical Forum in Kubinka, Russia. The car’s styling is based on that of the 1970s Izh 2125 Combi.

The CV-1 uses modular batteries, with a total capacity of 90kWh, which Kalashnikov says are powered through a “revolutionary inverter” that measures 50x50x100cm. A range of 220 miles is cited for the car.

While no specifics were given about the CV-1’s motor, Kalashnikov cites an output of 295bhp, with a claimed 0-62mph time of around six seconds.

According to the RIA-Novosti news agency's press office, a Kalashnikov spokesperson said: “This technology will let us stand in the ranks of global electric car products such as Tesla and be their competitors.”

The original 2125 Kombi was produced by Izh, a subsidiary of Lada parent firm AvtoVaz, between 1973 and 1997. The hatchback, itself based on a Moskvitch 412, was initially powered by a 69bhp 1.5-litre engine.

Best known for its guns, Kalashnikov produces a wide range of military and civilian weapons and other systems. These include a number of bikes and off-road vehicles, and the firm recently unveiled a four-metre-tall, 4.5-tonne manned robot named Igorek.

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James Attwood

James Attwood, digital editor
Title: Acting magazine editor

James is Autocar's acting magazine editor. Having served in that role since June 2023, he is in charge of the day-to-day running of the world's oldest car magazine, and regularly interviews some of the biggest names in the industry to secure news and features, such as his world exclusive look into production of Volkswagen currywurst. Really.

Before first joining Autocar in 2017, James spent more than a decade in motorsport journalist, working on Autosport, autosport.com, F1 Racing and Motorsport News, covering everything from club rallying to top-level international events. He also spent 18 months running Move Electric, Haymarket's e-mobility title, where he developed knowledge of the e-bike and e-scooter markets. 

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Nickktod 26 August 2018

“Revolutionary” technology...

...as in from 1917?

dougflump 26 August 2018

oh dear

I'm pretty certain that Igorek will build this car ...Jeez !

sierra 25 August 2018

Looks like a 1972 Datsun 510...

...whatever happened to that company......