The Moskvich plant has finished setting up the painting line in preparation for the start of small-unit car assembly planned for 2024, according to the Moskvich bulletin. The update signals a key milestone as the facility gears up to expand its production capabilities for compact crossover models.
According to the statement, the preparatory work involved multiple stages: selecting local suppliers and materials, conducting tests, and readying equipment at the Moskvich plant. New movement paths for the body and robotic systems were developed to ensure uniform application of paint and varnish, aiming for consistent finish across vehicles.
Early painted body prototypes were tested to confirm compliance with standard specifications, while local suppliers rolled out five color options for Moskvich crossovers. The plan also calls for painting a substantial portion of exterior plastic components and the vehicle hulls, with small-unit assembly of crossovers slated to begin in the first quarter of 2024. This operation will run concurrently with large-unit assembly, reflecting a phased approach to scale production capabilities.
Previously, Moskvich advanced a localization program through 2029, highlighting a strategic focus on domestic supply chains and local manufacturing capabilities. This broader initiative aligns with the plant’s current transition toward integrated painting and assembly processes, reinforcing confidence in meeting future demand across North American markets, including Canada and the United States. The company’s updates underscore a commitment to improving efficiency, reducing lead times, and delivering consistent quality across vehicle lines as the production footprint expands beyond traditional models.
Industry observers note that the move to begin small-unit assembly in tandem with large-unit production could offer flexibility for mixed-variant offerings and rapid response to market trends. By integrating painting operations closely with assembly, Moskvich aims to streamline workflow, minimize bottlenecks, and enhance overall manufacturing resilience as it scales up to meet customer expectations in North American regions.
As the program progresses, ongoing collaboration with local suppliers and technology partners will be essential to maintaining the cadence of production and ensuring the durability of painted finishes. The Moskvich bulletin’s outline of steps—from supplier selection to paint line optimization—emphasizes a methodical approach designed to uphold quality standards while expanding capacity for the next wave of crossover models.