Maxim Sokolov, the president of AvtoVAZ, outlined a cautious but ambitious outlook for the St. Petersburg facility, the former Nissan plant, noting that a positive market environment could push yearly output to between 50,000 and 70,000 Lada vehicles during 2025–2027. Specifically, for the current year, he indicated a plan to manufacture up to 10,000 cars, contingent on demand and broader market momentum. The projections reflect a strategy to scale production in line with customer appetite and economic conditions, while leveraging the plant’s enhanced capabilities to deliver models that resonate with a broad spectrum of buyers.
The plan to assemble Ladas from pre-prepared car kits is slated to commence in the latter half of 2023. Prior to that milestone, substantial work remains to retool and ready the former Nissan facility for Lada manufacturing, including facility modernization, supply chain alignment, and quality assurance pathways. The Transition requires careful coordination across engineering, logistics, and compliance to ensure a smooth ramp in a competitive regional market.
Three new Lada models are anticipated at the St. Petersburg site, featuring higher-end configurations within the C and D segments, including both sedans and crossovers. These introductions are expected to be carried out in collaboration with foreign partners, with Chinese manufacturers among the potential collaborators. The move aims to diversify the product lineup, improve margins, and appeal to customers seeking modern design, improved safety features, and better overall value in mid-size and larger vehicle classes.
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Note: The information reflects strategic statements from AvtoVAZ about production plans at the St. Petersburg facility and is intended to provide a clear view of the company’s manufacturing direction and market expectations for the near to mid-term horizon.