In February this year, none of the brands officially present in Russia raised their prices for the domestic market. This finding came from the National Agency for Industrial Information (NAI). The agency’s analysis highlights how manufacturers kept the sticker price steady despite ongoing market pressures, offering some relief to buyers amid a dynamic automotive landscape.
NAPI marketing researchers assessed the suggested retail prices (RRP) for new passenger cars in February 2024. In comparison with January 2024, the six JAC trim levels showed a price reduction ranging from 5% to 15.6%. Analysts noted that a single automaker refrained from any price increase during the month, contributing to a broader perception of stabilizing consumer costs in the market.
To illustrate, the JS3 crossover, across its three configurations, experienced a price cut of 100,000 rubles. The JS6 model’s price declined by 429,000 rubles, or up to 499,000 rubles depending on the selected configuration. The J7 liftback saw its price drop by 399,000 rubles. These changes reflect the competitive pricing dynamics among Chinese brands operating in Russia and their efforts to capture market share through more attractive entry points for buyers.
Earlier, automotive analyst Morzharetto commented on the surge in electric vehicle sales within Russia. He attributed the rise to the low starting base for EVs in the country, which makes percentage gains appear more pronounced. Morzharetto also noted that despite the noticeable momentum, the total EV stock remains relatively modest, with roughly forty thousand electric vehicles registered nationwide.
The analysis underscores a shifting consumer base, where interest in electrified mobility is growing even as the traditional internal combustion market remains substantial.
On February 27, a notable milestone occurred: a Chinese car model reached the finals of a national Car of the Year competition for the first time. The BYD Seal electric car earned this distinguished spot, illustrating how Chinese brands are increasingly competing at the highest levels in the Russian market and resonating with buyers seeking modern, efficient options. This development mirrors broader trends in the global automotive arena where electrification and brand diversification influence consumer choice.
Meanwhile, China also witnessed the launch of a flashy new model, the BYD YangWang U9, which added to the momentum surrounding electrified sports-oriented offerings. The arrival of such performance-oriented electric vehicles signals evolving consumer preferences toward vehicles that combine speed, design, and green technology, while expanding the spectrum of options available to Russian buyers and the broader regional audience.