Jinyun snowmobile breaks into Russian market

A customer test-rides a motorbike produced by Zuma Moto. [Photo/Tide News]

Zhejiang Zuma Moto in Lishui's Jinyun county, Zhejiang province, has shipped its XD-01 snowmobiles to Russia, marking the start of a 5,000-unit overseas order. All deliveries are scheduled for completion by October.

The vehicle was custom-developed for Russia's extreme snowy conditions. With a quick-swap modular design, technicians can replace standard wheels with aluminum-alloy tracks in under 10 minutes, transforming an off-road motorcycle into a snowmobile.

The track system weighs only 54 kilograms, ensures minimal power loss and agile handling, and reaches speeds of 70 to 80 kilometers per hour. The retail price is set at 20,000 yuan ($2980.3).

R&D faced challenges like metal brittleness, lubricant viscosity, and cold-start problems in freezing conditions. Zuma took an independent approach by designing and molding critical components, including the frame, instead of relying on standard industry molds.

The company also holds over 40 patents related to vibration reduction, structural integrity, and air intake systems. 

Russian dealers praised the vehicle's all-terrain versatility: it serves as a regular motorcycle in spring, summer, and autumn, and converts to a snowmobile in winter.

Before mass production, the XD-01 passed comprehensive tests and underwent field trials in Northeast China at temperatures ranging from minus 30 to minus 40 C.

Zuma also leverages international expos and racing events to demonstrate product performance and build client trust. Founded in 2023, the company now offers 500 to 600 models across all categories.

Jinyun's well-developed industrial chain can supply 80 percent of parts for a single vehicle within a single day, significantly shortening R&D and mass-production cycles.