Modifications of Lada Granta Without ABS and Airbags Enter Russian Taxi Fleets
Changes to the Lada Granta that omit ABS and airbags have started appearing in Russian taxi companies. The trend was reported by Gazeta.ru, noting that production of these stripped-down models began this summer after certain components from abroad were discontinued. The lower price tag on these cars has made them more accessible to ride-hailing operators and private buyers alike.
While anti-crisis versions have not yet begun transporting passengers in Moscow, regional markets are actively purchasing them. Car dealers confirm the initial uptake outside the capital, signaling a shift in fleet composition across the country.
Taxi firms are also willing to accept these cars for hire from private owners, expanding the pool of candidate vehicles available to fleets and individual drivers.
Passengers traveling in such cars are unlikely to notice significant changes during a ride, unless there is no air conditioning. The real differences reveal themselves in the workplace, where drivers must adapt to operating a vehicle missing crucial safety components. This transition requires targeted training to handle driving without ABS and airbags, especially under varying road conditions and weather.
Concerns about winter driving are particularly sharp. When conditions worsen, the absence of ABS can complicate braking and stability. An industry expert quoted in the report warned that a driver accustomed to ABS could struggle to adjust to a car without this system, potentially reducing reaction time in emergencies. The same source noted that, in a crisis, a driver might not orient themselves quickly enough, increasing the risk of skidding or loss of control.
In addition, the chairman of the Passengers’ Association suggested that drivers who switch to cars without ABS and airbags should undergo additional testing before being permitted to work as taxi operators. This perspective reflects worries about safety standards and training requirements amid a market shift toward cheaper, less feature-rich vehicles.
For those curious about the publication source, it is possible to read the discussion under the topic of
Driving in the messaging platform Viber. The phrase Driving appears there, indicating how information about these vehicles circulates among industry professionals and enthusiasts alike.