Maxim Kadakov, the editor-in-chief of the long-running popular car magazine Za Rulem, shared his expectations about vehicles that could emerge from the Moskvich plant, a facility that recently belonged to Renault and previously produced cars bearing the French brand. In his assessment, four distinct scenarios seem plausible, though he also admits there may be a secret fifth option that remains unspoken.
Expert perspective
Maxim Kadakov, editor-in-chief of the publication Behind the Wheel, weighs in:
Hypothetically, one scenario feels almost fantastical compared to the others. The first option resembles a kitchen-table debate: reviving Moskvich. The question arises—are we discussing a model from the 41st series? The reality is that there are no current production lines, no modern equipment, and updating old tooling would be prohibitively expensive and illogical. A car built around four-decade-old technology would not attract demand, and the market would see little value in a Moskvich powered by an obsolete engine and transmission.
The second scenario involves developing a car from scratch. In theory, this could only be undertaken by AVTOVAZ and NAMI, a lengthy and intricate process that would likely take a year or two at minimum. However, both companies are facing significant internal difficulties, making this route unlikely in the near term.
A more feasible option might be to source a relatively unknown Chinese vehicle, acquire a simple model from Chinese suppliers, and badge it with Moskvich branding using Chinese kits. This approach presents a realistic possibility, given the current constraints and timelines.
The Moscow authorities are aiming to introduce a new model by the end of the year. Yet the time frame is tight, and no other vehicle, not even a compact Chinese model, could be prepared quickly enough to pass through the assembly line in that short window.
One more possibility involves Renault Arkana, with Moskvich branding attached. The Arkana was produced on the same platform, and the necessary tooling and facility readiness appear aligned. Yet this scenario hinges on Renault’s willingness to authorize such a rebranding, and even if approval were granted, there would be no body panels available, since Alpha Automotive Technologies, which supplied those panels, also exited Russia. While stamps could potentially be sourced and assembled domestically, the overall production setup would still require time and investment, precluding rapid execution.
The expert notes that his views exist within a complex context. In difficult times, transformations become possible, and there may even be a fifth option that remains unknown at present. He expresses a desire to hear guidance from city authorities on how to interpret the revival concept for Moskvich. A car brand represents more than a logo; it embodies an idea and an ideology that shape consumer behavior, establish a prospective model lineup, influence pricing strategies, drive dealer networks, and shape advertising campaigns. Beyond the initial notion of revival, he sees a need for a cohesive plan to turn the idea into a tangible and sustainable automotive project.
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