Today, electric vehicles are no longer something unusual. They are mass-produced in countries such as the USA, Germany, France, China, and Japan. Russia is lagging a bit in this area, although it was here that the electric vehicle was first conceived back in the 19th century. In 1899, engineer Hippolyte Vladimirovich Romanov, who was then 35 years old, presented his vehicle, a carriage with an electric engine.

Externally, this transport resembled an English cab and was designed for two passengers and a driver. The main innovation lay in the batteries, which supplied electricity to two engines that drove the wheels. At 1800 revolutions per minute, the engines developed a power of almost 6 horsepower. The battery charge lasted for 4 days, and the range was about 65 km. The cabin also had a small heater, which was important for the harsh Russian climate. Despite high praise from specialists, Romanov's electric vehicle did not gain widespread popularity.

However, Hippolyte Vladimirovich did not become disheartened. In 1901, he began a new project, an electric omnibus, or bus. This invention could reach speeds of up to 10 km/h, weighed about 1.5 tons, and accommodated 15 passengers, as well as having two additional seats on an open platform at the back. Romanov proposed to create 10 routes for this new public transport in St. Petersburg.

Although local authorities granted permission, they refused to finance the production of electric buses, citing a lack of funds. Investors were also skeptical of Romanov's idea. Opposition came from cab drivers, who did not want such competition. Ultimately, the project had to be closed. This is unfortunate, as Romanov's initiatives could have later become a stimulus for the development of domestic electric vehicle production.