Starting November 1, 2025, Russia is introducing an updated methodology for calculating the recycling (utilization) fee. The calculation will now include not only the age of the car and engine displacement but also engine power. This new factor is the main trigger for growth: for some vehicles the fee will remain symbolic, while for powerful and premium models it may reach hundreds of thousands or even millions of rubles. Below is a detailed explanation, table and examples to help you plan your budget correctly.
What Exactly is Changing and Why
Until now, individuals enjoyed a reduced fixed fee — just a few thousand rubles for new cars (<3 years) and slightly more for those over three years old. This system ignored actual performance: small turbocharged cars with high power paid the same as simple atmospheric sedans.
Now a power coefficient is added. The higher the horsepower, the higher the final payment. As a result, cars up to 160 hp remain in the “green zone”, while sport sedans, powerful crossovers and many EVs/hybrids will face much higher fees.
The formula still uses the base rate, age and engine type, but power now becomes the decisive factor.
How the Fee is Calculated
The calculation is based on four components:
Recycling Fee = Base Rate × K(age) × K(type/volume/technology) × K(power)
Base rate — set for category M1 (passenger cars). K(age) separates new (<3 years) from older (>3 years) vehicles. K(type) accounts for fuel type and displacement. K(power) is the new parameter that dramatically raises the fee for vehicles above the threshold.
Indicative Table by Power Range
Below is a table with approximate fees by power range. Use it as a quick reference — actual calculation will depend on official coefficients at the time of payment:
| Power Range (hp) | Approx. Recycling Fee |
|---|---|
| 160–190 | ₽750,000 |
| 190–220 | ₽794,000 |
| 220–250 | ₽842,000 |
| 250–280 | ₽952,000 |
| 280–310 | ₽1.076 million |
| 310–340 | ₽1.216 million |
| 340–370 | ₽1.386 million |
| 370–400 | ₽1.58 million |
| 400–430 | ₽1.8 million |
| 430–460 | ₽2.054 million |
| 460–500 | ₽2.34 million |
| >500 | ₽2.668 million |
You can see that above 300 hp the fee increases sharply. Choosing a slightly less powerful version can save hundreds of thousands of rubles by staying in a lower band.
Practical Examples
Example 1: A crossover with 178 hp — falls into the 160–190 hp band with an estimated fee of about ₽750,000. A version with 201 hp would already cost about ₽794,000.
Example 2: A sedan with 235 hp — falls into the 220–250 hp band with an estimated fee of ₽842,000. Choosing a 218 hp version lowers the band to 190–220 hp and the fee to roughly ₽794,000.
Example 3: An electric vehicle with effective power of 320 hp — falls into the 310–340 hp band and faces a fee of about ₽1.2 million. EV owners should carefully check how power is counted for this fee.
Impact on the Market
For cars below 160 hp, no dramatic changes are expected — fees remain symbolic. But more powerful models will become much more expensive, and importers will inevitably pass this cost on to buyers. Consumers will now pay closer attention to horsepower when choosing a vehicle.
The used car market is expected to adjust within 3–6 months: prices for high-powered vehicles will rise, and demand will shift towards lower-powered versions. Sellers will emphasize power ratings in ads, and buyers will check this data more carefully.
Practical Tips for Buyers
- Check the official power rating in the car documents and compare it with the table.
- Review all available versions: sometimes a 5–10 hp difference puts you in a cheaper bracket.
- Consider vehicle age and import category: they have their own coefficients.
- For EVs, clarify how power is officially measured for taxation purposes.
- Plan your budget with a buffer: coefficients and exchange rates may change.
Common Mistakes
The most common mistake is trying to “downgrade” power without proper documentation — this often leads to delays or paying more later. Another frequent issue is forgetting to account for age: a car just over 3 years old falls into a different coefficient. EV owners sometimes miscalculate by comparing them directly to ICE cars.
- Do not rely on outdated calculators or random chat estimates — always verify rules valid at the time of payment.
- Keep all documents (title, certificates, homologation): without them disputes take longer and cost more.
Business and Fleet Perspective
Corporate buyers should standardize engine power across their fleet to avoid unexpected jumps in cost. Car sharing and taxi companies will likely switch to sub-160 hp versions to keep total cost of ownership predictable. Importers should plan pricing by power range, not just by trim level or body type.
Manufacturers who offer several power outputs for the same model will have an advantage, as they can keep versions under the threshold and maintain competitive pricing.
Conclusion
Power now has a price. Choosing the right configuration can save hundreds of thousands upfront and improve future resale value. Always use official data and check current coefficients before making payment.
FAQ
Which vehicles will be affected? All cars exceeding 160 hp for private individuals, and many EVs/hybrids with high nominal power.
How is the fee calculated? The base rate is multiplied by coefficients for age, type, and engine power. Power is the factor that makes fees rise dramatically for strong cars.
How can I save money? Choose a lower-powered trim, check age and category carefully, and calculate in advance to avoid surprises.