The AvtoVAZ plant is evaluating three potential Chinese suppliers for automatic transmissions, according to a source at the factory cited by Drom. The discussions cover not only the suppliers but also the specific gearbox models under consideration. Among the candidates are hydromechanical automatics, with an 8-speed option appearing on the list, as well as variators. In China, several firms manufacture traditional automatic transmissions for passenger cars, though many are joint ventures with global brands such as GM, ZF, BorgWarner, and Aisin, or involve licensed production. It seems likely that a localized European-style automatic transmission would power future Ladas to fit regional needs. Previously, AVTOVAZ signed a deal with Magna International to supply components for automatic transmissions and to localize production in Togliatti. That agreement has since been paused, but there remains a possibility that developments from this project could be advanced through Chinese involvement.
Collage: Behind the wheel — Source: Drom