Russia is weighing new requirements for taxi vehicles that would mandate a localization component threshold for newly released models starting in 2024, targeting prices under 4 million rubles. The proposal, outlined in a document from Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Grigorenko, signals a shift toward greater domestic content in the automotive sector. This initiative comes after a recommendation from the Federation Council and centers on the total points scored by a car based on a localization index that assesses how much of the vehicle is made domestically.
Under the proposed framework, non-electric taxis would need to reach increasing localization scores over time: a minimum of 1,000 points from January 1 of next year, rising to 2,000 points from January 1, 2026, and reaching 3,000 points from January 1, 2028. For electric vehicles, the plan sets initially lower thresholds, with 1,000 points required from January 1, 2025, then 2,000 points from January 1, 2027, and 3,000 points from January 1, 2029. These point levels are designed to incentivize local manufacturing and supply chain involvement while guiding the market toward more domestic production within the taxi segment.
Meanwhile, Moskvich has announced ambitions to begin electric car production on its own platform by 2025. The company reports that it has localized key blocks and components, including the ERA-GLONASS system and various technical fluids and accessories. Efforts are underway to initiate small-scale assembly focused on two areas: localizing welding and painting processes, signaling a broader push to expand domestic manufacturing capabilities in the near term. This move aligns with broader government goals to bolster domestic automotive capabilities and reduce reliance on imports in the growing electric vehicle market. The developments reflect ongoing policy shaping and industry adaptation across Russia as it balances new localization requirements with evolving technology demand and investor interest. [citation] Attribution to official government statements and industry briefings noted by TASS. [citation]