Industry circles indicate AvtoVAZ is actively examining a taxi-focused version of the Lada Aura. The goal is to adapt the Aura’s familiar sedan silhouette into a fleet-friendly workhorse that keeps driving feel intact while trimming operating costs for taxi operators and ride-hailing fleets in major urban centers. The planned variant would lean on the Aura platform but strip away options that inflate price and maintenance demands in a taxi service. Industry insiders say the priority is a vehicle capable of daily city duty, delivering dependable comfort for both drivers and passengers and standing up to the rigors of nonstop urban use. The idea is to produce a machine that stays steady through long shifts, with predictable service costs and easy-to-source parts, so fleets can run efficiently without dramatic downtime.
Proposed changes under consideration include a simplified interior trim using durable, easy-to-clean materials to cut initial purchase prices and reduce long-term wear. The plan foresees a revised sound system optimized for voice prompts, navigation guidance, and hands-free calls rather than premium multimedia features. The underlying engineering would stay aligned with the standard Aura, preserving its core performance, safety features, and reliability. The taxi variant would be designed for quick servicing in fleet operations, with lower spare-parts costs and simplified maintenance routines. In practical terms, the result would be a toned-down, budget-conscious variant that still protects safety and the fundamental driving experience. Fleet teams could appreciate standardized components and fewer expensive options that are rarely used in daily taxi service.
On the production side, industry sources say the Aura lineup could increase its output in the coming year. The pace might run between 2.5 and 5 cars per hour, depending on whether public procurement rules are adjusted to favor localized manufacturing. If policy supports domestic supply chains, AvtoVAZ could see stronger orders from municipal fleets and corporate operators seeking locally produced options. Current plans indicate the company aims to begin production of Lada Aura flexible sedans soon and to assemble up to several thousand units by year-end. The emphasis on localization and simplified build configurations is meant to speed up delivery and lower costs for operators in Russia and potentially neighboring markets. The broader expectation is that the taxi version will slot into a broader, more adaptable Aura family, making it easier for fleet buyers to tailor specifications for city driving and duty cycles.
Market observers have noted that the Lada Aura family already includes a business sedan variant that could command a premium, with price estimates above 3 million rubles. While final pricing depends on specifications, localization content, and supplier terms, the direction points toward a vehicle designed for business fleets and professional drivers. The taxi plan aligns with a broader strategy to expand the Aura family beyond personal-use models, using a proven chassis and safety suite to deliver a practical, durable option for fleet owners. In the coming months, industry watchers will track whether the taxi adaptation gains traction in procurement and how domestic parts content affects fleet costs.