EcoFest is far more than an annual showcase—it is a major international event that brings together engineers, investors, and advocates of sustainable transport from around the world. As we look forward to the long-awaited return of the festival after a seven-year break, we've compiled some of the key facts and memorable milestones from its history.
From Hundreds to Thousands: A Growing Global Audience The history of EcoFest reflects the rapid growth of interest in uST technology. Attendance figures at the EcoTechnoPark in Maryina Gorka speak for themselves:
- 2016 (debut): the inaugural festival welcomed approximately 600 pioneering participants.
- 2017: attendance grew more than sixfold to 3,875 visitors.
- 2019 (record year): the venue hosted approximately 5,000 participants.
Geography Without Borders: Up to 16,842 Kilometers for uST Over the years, EcoFest has brought together people from across the globe. In 2019, delegations from more than 50 countries traveled to Maryina Gorka. Alongside guests from Belarus and Russia, visitors arrived from the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, the United States, Australia, India, Vietnam, Nigeria, and Oman to experience uST technology firsthand.
The longest journeys were made by visitors from the Philippines (8,764 km), Peru (7,760.9 km), and New Zealand, whose delegates traveled a remarkable 16,842 km to reach the demonstration and testing center.
Within the CIS and Europe, several countries also sent large delegations. The largest group traditionally came from Russia (692 participants), followed by Belarus (577), with Italy (137), Ukraine (132), Kazakhstan (95), and Germany (89) completing the top six.
More Than a Showcase: Test Drives and a Family-Friendly Atmosphere EcoFest has always offered visitors a unique interactive experience:
- Real test drives. Guests had the opportunity to ride uPods on the test tracks and experience the comfort of second-level transport firsthand.
- A festive atmosphere. Technology presentations were complemented by entertainment, recreation areas, networking opportunities, and informal gatherings.
- Meeting the founder. The highlight of every EcoFest was a presentation by uST Chief Designer Anatoli Unitsky, followed by an opportunity for attendees to ask him questions directly.
The Online Era and World Premieres The COVID-19 pandemic forced the festival to move online in 2020, but not to scale back its ambitions. During the live broadcast, Anatoli Unitsky unveiled a new generation of heavy-duty transport solutions, including:
- A 25-seat passenger uBus capable of operating in coupled formations with a total capacity of up to 200 passengers.
- A 50-metric-ton uCont (35-metric-ton payload) designed to transport standard 40-foot shipping containers.
- An expanded product portfolio of 14 vehicle models, including versions adapted for tropical climates in the Middle East.
The Return of a Landmark Event in 2026 In autumn 2026, after a seven-year break, the EcoTechnoPark will once again open its doors to guests. Visitors can look forward to face-to-face networking, guided tours of the upgraded facilities, presentations of destination projects, and demonstrations of the latest uST developments that are already becoming reality.
Source