Russia should not allow global auto brands to pursue sanctions against the country, and it is important for lawmakers to back the domestic automotive industry. This perspective was voiced on the TV channel 360 by Alexander Tolmachev, a deputy from the United Russia faction and a member of the State Duma Committee on the Development of Transport and Transport Infrastructure. The stance reflects a broader debate about how Russia can strengthen its own industrial base while navigating international pressure.
Tolmachev argued that shifting toward domestically produced vehicles or models with a high degree of localization is a normal and timely move not only for the Duma but also for state corporations and government departments. This perspective emphasizes a strategic shift in procurement and production that could align with national goals of energy security, technological sovereignty, and economic resilience in the face of global sanctions or supply disruptions.
According to Tolmachev, such a decision would not only bolster the Russian automotive sector but also reduce dependence on unfriendly countries. He noted that several global automakers have restricted certain functionalities for Russian buyers, underscoring the practical challenges that arise from relying on foreign brands amid geopolitical tensions. The conversation points to a broader theme in public policy discussions about ensuring continued mobility and independence for citizens and state institutions alike.
What comes next is a question that Tolmachev raises about vehicle ownership and usability. Will car owners happily adopt domestically produced cars, or will there be reluctance due to perceived performance gaps? Tolmachev suggested trust in the prospect that localization efforts will translate into reliable, user-friendly vehicles that do not impose arbitrary constraints on drivers. The underlying message is that a domestically oriented auto market can deliver practical benefits without compromising consumer freedom or vehicle safety.
Earlier, Vyacheslav Volodin, the chairman of the State Duma, stated that deputies should lean toward using only domestic cars as official vehicles. He argued that such decisions could spur rapid growth in the domestic automotive industry, creating a positive cycle of innovation, supply chain development, and expanded employment. The emphasis on domestic procurement reflects a broader policy aim to foster self-sufficiency and stimulate investment in related sectors such as steel, electronics, battery production, and testing infrastructure. (Source: parliamentary briefing and televised remarks, 2024)
In a related context, the Russian market has seen discussions about expanding the fleet of locally assembled models and supporting manufacturers that demonstrate strong localization. This conversation includes evaluating incentives for automakers to increase domestic content, streamline certification processes, and partner with research institutions to accelerate new technology adoption. The ongoing dialogue signals a long-term strategy to build a resilient, homegrown automotive ecosystem capable of competing on quality and value while reducing exposure to external shocks. (Source: industry roundtables and official statements, 2024)
Historical notes mention that the state has, at times, supported domestic brands through pilot programs and procurement initiatives. The modest example cited involves the use of Moskvich 3 vehicles in certain state contexts, illustrating an ongoing experimentation with domestic platforms. The broader significance lies in the symbolic and practical emphasis on a homegrown automotive future, where policy aligns with manufacturing capability, consumer expectations, and the drive toward economic sovereignty. (Source: public sector announcements, 2024)