AvtoVAZ has completed moving the updated flagship model’s production from Izhevsk to the Tolyatti site. On February 10, the company began pre-series production of the Lada Vesta NG at Togliatti, with an official note from the Samara region government describing it as a key step in aligning manufacturing with new standards and timelines.
Pre-series builds use equipment tuned during assembly lines to ensure that every process in production and logistics is tested and validated before a full scale rollout. These early units are not intended for direct sale; they serve to verify accuracy and efficiency across the entire manufacturing chain, from parts handling to final inspection.
On Friday, February 10, regional Governor Dmitry Azarov and AVTOVAZ president Maxim Sokolov officially kicked off the pre-series phase at the Tolyatti site. The announcement indicated that full series production is planned to begin in early March, with first deliveries expected in April. This staged approach helps monitor assembly precision and smooth transition to the updated model’s wider availability.
During this transition, the Vesta NG design faced a substantial set of challenges due to sanctions affecting a significant portion of its components. The company undertook extensive substitutions and sourcing efforts to restore supply chains and ensure compliance with the revised specifications. The focus was on maintaining reliability and performance while mitigating the impact of limited access to certain parts.
- The 16-valve engine is slated for return to the Vesta lineup in the first half of 2023, complemented by a new continuously variable transmission planned for 2024 to enhance efficiency and driving dynamics.
- Additional content about customer experience and vehicle features can be viewed on RuTube under the program “Behind the Wheel.”
As zero-defect production remains the goal, the company emphasizes thorough testing and process validation at the Togliatti facility. The shift to a new production site represents a strategic step to modernize manufacturing infrastructure while ensuring continuity of supply for customers in Russia and neighboring markets.