Discussion at a session in the Federation Council focused on boosting the auto industry revealed a clear timeline for improvements at AvtoVAZ. The emphasis was on upgrading the lineup with modern safety and efficiency features while expanding technical capabilities to support broader travel. The plan centers on bringing new standards in front of customers and ensuring the vehicles meet international expectations for safety and emissions clarity.
According to the briefing, all Ladas will receive an anti-lock braking system (ABS) early next year. This upgrade is presented not just as a feature, but as a fundamental advancement that enhances on-road stability and braking reliability in varying conditions. The transition to ABS is aligned with a broader push to modernize the brand’s safety profile and to raise consumer confidence across diverse driving situations.
Looking ahead, the next significant step is reintroducing a 16-valve engine that complies with Euro 5 emissions standards. This move will broaden the vehicles’ suitability for international travel and export, as reducing exhaust emissions remains a key criterion for many markets. It is noted that the current 8-valve engine, which has been used temporarily, does not meet the stricter exhaust requirements commonly demanded by other countries for roadworthy certification. The change to a 16-valve design promises improved efficiency, smoother performance, and cleaner emissions to help vehicles meet a wider range of regulatory frameworks.
By the end of 2023, the plan includes completing the rollout of an Electronic Stability Program (ESP) across all AVTOVAZ models. ESP is intended to provide enhanced steering control in dynamic driving scenarios, supporting better vehicle stability and reducing the risk of oversteer or understeer in challenging conditions. This upgrade is positioned as a core component of the brand’s commitment to safety and driver confidence in a growing market landscape.
Capacity expansion is another pillar of the strategy. The company aims to produce more than 800,000 cars annually, a goal designed to help ease the shortage of affordable vehicles in multiple markets. This production ramp is paired with a call for stronger state support to stimulate demand for new domestic cars. Leaders are discussing the allocation of at least 20 billion rubles for preferential car loans and leasing programs, illustrating a comprehensive approach that combines manufacturing scale with consumer incentives. The emphasis is on making reliable, modern vehicles accessible to a broad base of buyers while supporting economic activity within the domestic automotive ecosystem. The pursuit of this policy mix reflects an understanding that automotive resilience in the face of market fluctuations depends on both robust production and accessible financing options for buyers. The dialogue also highlights the importance of aligning domestic automotive policy with international standards, ensuring that new models can compete across borders while meeting local safety and environmental expectations. In short, the strategy weaves together technology upgrades, regulatory compliance, production capacity, and financial support to position AVTOVAZ for sustained growth in the North American and global markets, with a focus on Canada and the United States as key reference points for export readiness and consumer demand.