Last week, AvtoVAZ rolled out a line of compact Lada Granta cars equipped with airbags and a fully operational ERA-GLONASS system, according to the Public page of Avtograd news on VKontakte. The report highlights a tangible step forward in safety and modern telematics for the model lineup, reflecting the factory’s ongoing commitment to improving passenger protection and navigation services across its repertoire of vehicles. This development comes as the brand continues to adapt to market expectations and regulatory demands, signaling a shift toward enhanced standard equipment even in entry-level variants as part of a broader quality initiative. [Public page of Avtograd News, VKontakte]
Officials indicate that in the near term, airbags and the ERA-GLONASS system will be reintroduced as standard components across all Lada Granta productions. The concern over the absence of these safety and connectivity features in certain dealer stock appears to be addressed through a coordinated rollout, ensuring that every newly manufactured Granta meets a baseline of occupant protection and real-time location services. In tandem with this, the plant has been assembling the Lada Granta in the basic “Standard” configuration, a version that many buyers have long requested due to its simplified feature set and attractive price point. This move aims to restore stock balance at dealer networks and fulfill consumer expectations for a more complete vehicle package in everyday driving scenarios. [Public page of Avtograd News, VKontakte]
Earlier communications noted plans for Izhevsk’s production facilities to resume assembling Lada Largus station wagons and pickups. The schedule points to a gradual ramp-up, with full mass production anticipated to resume at the Izhevsk plant in May 2024. During the interim, a pilot batch of Largus was completed at the same facility, providing a preview of how the model will perform on the road and in commercial applications once production scales up. This phased approach helps the plant validate assembly processes, supply chain readiness, and quality control before turning up the volume. [Public page of Avtograd News, VKontakte]
Meanwhile, industry observers had previously been briefed that Mercedes-Benz was re-evaluating its transition toward electrified vehicles within the broader strategy for its light-commercial and passenger segments. The reference underscores ongoing discussions around electrification timelines, platform alignment, and the potential synergy between legacy brands and emerging powertrain technologies within the region. The evolving landscape suggests that European and Russian automotive programs continue to adapt to shifting regulatory environments, consumer demand for greener options, and the need for sustainable profitability in a competitive market. [Public page of Avtograd News, VKontakte]