Outlandish Russian EV prototype aims for 2025 production.

A new electric vehicle prototype has recently been unveiled, but its shocking design has left many people speechless – and not in a good way. The Amber, developed by Moscow Polytechnic University, has been likened to a parrotfish that’s taken a beating with a frying pan.

Unfortunately, the university has not disclosed any specifics about the Amber’s range, power, or charging capabilities. According to reports from World Today News, production is expected to commence in 2025 at an Avtotor facility in Kaliningrad, which has previously manufactured vehicles for well-known brands like BMW, Ford, and Hyundai, before they pulled out of Russia due to the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

Given the current geopolitical climate and the reluctance of many western companies to engage with Russia, the developers of the Amber have stated that this will be a wholly Russian endeavor. However, there are concerns that the technology used in the vehicle may ultimately be sourced from China, according to Ukraine Today.

Looking at the Amber’s design, it’s clear to see that its unconventional and exaggerated exterior may be attributed to the use of off-the-shelf parts. It’s been noted that the vehicle’s glass, mirrors, and headlights resemble components that may have been obtained from various suppliers. Furthermore, the unusual height of the Amber could be intended to conceal a poorly-integrated battery pack, which raises questions about the effectiveness of its design.

The Amber’s unconventional appearance has sparked widespread ridicule on the internet, including jabs from Ukrainian social media users and comparisons to the infamous Fiat Multipla. It’s also worth noting that historical Russian car designs, like those of Lada, UAZ, and VAZ, were known for their simple yet functional appearance, and it seems that the Amber may have tried to incorporate some design elements, albeit with less success.

In a somewhat hopeful development, Avtotor has indicated that the production model of the Amber will differ from the prototype, as reported by World Today News. This may provide some assurance for potential consumers who are put off by its current design. Five Ambers are scheduled to undergo certification in 2024, so there remains a possibility that the final version of the vehicle will address some of the criticisms it has received.