Russian automaker Sollers is exploring the addition of hybrid pickups to its lineup, according to a report by Vedomosti that cites First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov. The news highlights ongoing discussions about electrification options within Sollers, with a specific emphasis on hybrids for pickup trucks. Manturov suggested that hybrids could offer strong potential for Russia, especially for residents outside major urban centers, and that some form of government support to stimulate demand is likely in the near term.
Sollers currently manufactures the ST6 pickup at the former Mazda facility in Vladivostok. The ST6 is a rebranded version of the Chinese JAC T6, configured as a five‑seat pickup. Its powertrain combines a gasoline engine with a rating of 176 horsepower, paired with a six‑speed manual transmission and an all‑wheel‑drive system. The vehicle employs a frame construction, with a cargo bed measuring 1520 by 1520 by 470 millimeters and a payload rating of 820 kilograms. Top speed is listed at 150 kilometers per hour, underscoring its role as a rugged, work‑ready utility vehicle for diverse driving conditions.
Current configurations include two trim levels: Basic and Comfort. The Basic trim provides essentials such as two airbags, air conditioning, cruise control, an on‑board computer, an audio system, electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, power windows, heated front seats, and rear parking sensors. The Comfort trim adds a multimedia system featuring six speakers and a large touch screen, plus a rear‑view camera to aid maneuvering in tighter spaces or less forgiving terrains. These specifications position the ST6 as a practical option for customers who demand practical capability with modern conveniences.
In related news, there have been previous reports that assembly work for Sollers’ tourist buses has begun in Vladivostok, illustrating the company’s broader manufacturing footprint in the region. This expansion reflects Sollers’ strategy to diversify production and leverage regional capacities, aligning with government goals to bolster domestic automotive output and advance local supply chains. As discussions about electrified and hybrid solutions continue, Sollers’ approach could influence the trajectory of light commercial vehicles across Russia, especially in markets where infrastructure and operating conditions favor hybrids and partial electrification over fully electric models. The evolving landscape points to a period of steady adaptation for manufacturers, policymakers, and consumers alike, with hybrid technology presenting a pragmatic bridge between traditional gasoline propulsion and full electrification, and with potential incentives shaping demand dynamics across the country — a topic closely watched by industry observers and investors. (Vedomosti, citing Denis Manturov)”