Near-future sales are planned for small-scale models Lada Granta Kub and Lada Niva Kub, developed by the Nizhny Novgorod firm Promtech. At present, both models are undergoing certification, as reported by Lada.Online. In terms of exterior and interior layout, they mirror the standard Granta and Niva, but they introduce an original steel pipe power cage with bonded composite panels, creating a distinctive, rugged silhouette that differentiates them from the base versions.
Despite the bold appearance, experts note that the design could find a solid niche in the market. Promtech is not a new player in the field. The company has a history of producing light commercial vehicles and special purpose units based on Lada platforms, and it has repeatedly experimented with composites and unconventional superstructures. This background lends credibility to the project and suggests a deliberate strategy rather than a one-off experiment.
On the AVTOVAZ site, within the commercial vehicle section, the official manufacturer—i.e., the partner organization—was active for a period. Promtech appeared alongside VIS as the entities associated with these products. For vehicles of this type, AVTOVAZ maintains warranty coverage and service through Lada service centers, ensuring a familiar support network for buyers who value established aftersales infrastructure.
The Granta Kub was developed on the basis of the VIS-2349 semi-frame truck. Its powerplant remains familiar: a 1.6-liter engine producing 90 horsepower, paired with a five-speed manual transmission. What differs is the cargo configuration: the usual van cargo space has been replaced by a steel-framed, panel-equipped superstructure with integrated seating. An additional door on the starboard side provides easy access, while the left side is fixed. In the rear, there are rotating doors reminiscent of those on the Lada Largus, enabling flexible loading and unloading scenarios for urban and regional use.
Likewise, the Lada Niva Kub shares several design cues with the Largus family. It uses almost identical second-row seating, and the right-hand side folds open to facilitate passage to the rear. Unlike the Granta Kub, this SUV-based minivan will offer eight seats, with three in the second row and three in the third row, surpassing the Largus in seating capacity. The classic Niva engine received an upgrade, increasing output from 83 to 106 horsepower, while the transmission remains the same. Whether this power bump will deliver adequate performance for a four-wheel-drive vehicle carrying a full load will be proven in upcoming tests. Industry observers expect the first test drives to occur shortly, and Niva Kub is anticipated to reach the market by the end of the year, with Granta Kub following, potentially as early as November.
- Looking ahead, Promtech plans to push the Niva Legend lineup next year, aiming to boost power by installing a 1.8-liter engine rated around 122 horsepower for the Sport variant.
- Content from Behind the Wheel can be accessed on RuTube as part of ongoing coverage.
Video coverage and hands-on demonstrations are accessible on YouTube under the MotorProject channel, with additional video materials highlighting performance data and design notes. This project illustrates how a traditional model can be adapted into a multi-seat, all-terrain capable vehicle through structural reinforcements and a modular interior layout. It also reflects a broader industry trend toward versatile, adaptable platforms that balance cargo space with people-mobility needs. Analysts emphasize that the success of such vehicles depends on real-world reliability, serviceability, and the dealer network that backs them, alongside regulatory compliance for modifications to standard platforms. [citation: Promtech press materials, 2023; AVTOVAZ site records, 2023]