JAKARTA - When Tesla has not yet realized the Cybervan, a Russian startup company has taken the first step. They introduced the Russo-Balt F200, an electric van made of stainless steel with a futuristic design that at first glance reminds of the bongsor version of the Tesla Cybertruck.
F200 is the first model from the revived Russo-Balt brand, taking the name of the legendary Russian car and train manufacturer that operated from 1869-1918. Production of the vehicle is said to be in the preparation stage, with the first delivery scheduled to begin in January 2027.
Previously, the F200 was caught on camera passing on a Russian public road, indicating that this project is not just a digital concept. Although its appearance is said to be similar to the Chinese Weiqiao New Energy V90, Russo-Balt confirmed that the F200 is an original design, not a rebadge.
The entire body panel is made of stainless steel without paint and manually welded, an approach used by Tesla on the Cybertruck. Despite appearing with a raw metal feel, consumers can still order an optional polyurethane coating in various colors and graphics.
The design language is also full of sharp corners, flat windows, and box arches. LED lights extend at the front and back, combined with a stern door design that reminds of the Cybertruck tank cover, further confirming the visual similarity.
Unlike most vans in its class that still use ladder frame chassis, the Russo-Balt F200 relies on a monocoque structure. This configuration is claimed to be able to support a load of up to 1,000 kilograms.
This electric van is classified internationally as L3H3 with dimensions of 5,950 mm in length, 2,000 mm in width, and 2,550 mm in height. Russo-Balt even dares to offer a 100-year body warranty for its rust-resistant steel panels.
The power source comes from a 200 hp electric motor that drives the front wheels. The 115 kWh battery is claimed to be able to travel up to 400 kilometers on a single charge, with support for DC fast charging via a port on the front bumper.
The price of the F200 is pegged at 85,200 US dollars or equivalent to Rp. 1.4 billion. Prospective buyers only need to deposit a refundable deposit of Rp. 2 million to enter the production queue list, although the production volume has not been announced.
The embedded standard features are quite complete, ranging from ABS, ESP, climate control, rear air suspension, to a 360-degree camera with live streaming capabilities. Almost all important components are also equipped with heaters, including seats, steering wheels, mirrors, even windshield wipers that adjust to the needs of Russia's extreme winter.
The infotainment system is controlled via a 14-inch touchscreen that is integrated with local platforms such as Rutube, VKvideo, and Yandex. Interestingly, the F200 development team claims to have experience producing stainless steel water dispensers, an expertise that is now applied to this electric vehicle project.
The production of the F200 itself will be based on orders, on the other hand, Russo-Balt is also preparing a second model called F400. This variant will carry a gasoline engine as a range extender, all-wheel drive through two electric motors, and a combined power of around 400 hp. However, the price details for the model are still confidential.
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