AFK Sistema, a Russian investment group, has entered talks to acquire Volkswagen’s Kaluga factory. This development was reported by Kommersant, which cited its own information sources. The potential purchase could pave the way for AFK Sistema to create a broader machinery manufacturingHolding that would anchor a new industrial cluster in Russia. (Source: Kommersant)
Sources indicate that, if the Kaluga plant changes hands, the deal would entail forming a manufacturing holding company focused on automotive components and assembly, with the Kaluga facility serving as a cornerstone. The strategic aim appears to be building an integrated production ecosystem that can scale with demand across the region. (Source: Kommersant)
In addition to the Kaluga project, AFK Sistema is said to plan to bring in the Kazakh automaker Allur into the venture. AllurGroup, as described in corporate disclosures, comprises the facilities of Agromashholding and SaryarkaAvtoProm, alongside the AllurAuto dealer network and distribution channels. The ownership mix is reported to include Chinese investors, with other potential participants from the Middle East and China showing interest in the deal. (Source: Kommersant)
The parties reportedly envision maintaining current production lines at the Kaluga technopark Grabtsevo for a transitional period, with operations continuing at least through March 2022. The Kaluga site, which has operated since 2009, sits within the Kaluga technopark complex and has been associated with Volkswagen, including the production of Volkswagen and Skoda models and a family of 1.6-liter gasoline engines. Historically, roughly 5,000 workers were employed at the facility. (Source: Kommersant)
Earlier reporting noted related investments by German manufacturers, including BMW, which signaled plans to invest around €800 million in automobile production expansion in Mexico. This context highlights ongoing reshaping in regional automotive manufacturing and the interest of international firms in strategic assets across Europe and adjacent markets. (Source: Kommersant)