During the first eleven months of 2023, Russia imported 992.2 thousand passenger cars, according to the analytical agency Avtostat. The report highlights that a majority of this volume consisted of new automobiles, accounting for 63% or 628.6 thousand units in January through November. This figure marks a substantial rise, being 3.9 times higher than in the same period of the previous year, underscoring a vibrant demand for fresh models and new brand introductions in the market.
Analysts note that imports of new passenger cars are unlikely to slow down in the near term. The market is being boosted by the ongoing introduction of new brands and a widening model range from brands already available. This expansion helps sustain consumer interest and supports higher import volumes as buyers seek modern features, enhanced safety equipment, and the latest technologies that come with newer models.
Earlier statements from representatives of Russia’s Ministry of Industry and Trade suggested a gradual recovery of the national automobile market. Projections shared by the department estimated that sales could approach 1.3 million units in 2024. The ministry also outlined a longer-term outlook: 2026 sales were expected to align with the average annual volume seen between 2015 and 2021, followed by a steady growth of about 1% each year starting in 2027. Under this scenario, vehicle sales could reach roughly 1.8 million units per year by 2030 and around 1.9 million units by 2035, signaling a sustained recovery and growth trajectory for the sector.
Additional context from earlier reports mentioned potential penalties related to violations along certain road segments, including a three-year prison sentence for offenses observed over significant stretches of road. This reminder underscores the evolving regulatory environment that accompanies changing market dynamics and consumer behavior in the country’s automotive landscape.