Russia Faces a Prolonged Auto Shortage Despite Chinese Models
The Russian automobile market continues to struggle with a persistent shortage of new vehicles. Even with the introduction of Chinese models, the supply gap remains unresolved. This view was shared on air by Maxim Kadakov, editor-in-chief of the magazine Behind the Wheel, during a broadcast on Moscow Speaks radio.
Industry insiders note that dealers and brokers are sometimes exploiting the imbalance, driving up costs in several ways. One informed auto expert pointed out that transporting a car by carrier can incur expenses reaching as high as 300 thousand rubles, a figure that directly adds to the sticker price for buyers.
When buyers visit car dealerships, they are quickly confronted with the reality of rising prices for Chinese vehicles. Deliveries alone can add 300 to 400 thousand rubles to the total cost. While a large share of Chinese cars is moving off lots, the expert argues that these models cannot fully replace cars that cost around a million rubles. The market simply does not have enough million-ruble Chinese options to meet demand. Chinese cars are welcome, but they do not solve all the transportation needs of many households. The market is still seeking affordable and comfortable options for everyday use.
At the same time, the second-hand vehicle segment has cooled. Data indicates a 20 percent drop in the number of offers, as many car owners hesitate to prepare vehicles for sale in a market characterized by volatility and uncertain pricing. This hesitancy reduces the pool of viable resale options and keeps prices elevated in some segments.
According to Rosstat, the average price of a new domestic car climbed to record levels in August, topping the one-million-ruble mark. This milestone reflects broader price pressures that are shaking consumer expectations and shaping dealer strategies across the country.
As the market watches the ruble’s trajectory, analysts and dealers alike wonder what will happen to car prices once currency stability returns. The balance between supply, demand, and pricing remains delicate, with buyers seeking dependable, affordable mobility amid ongoing supply constraints and shifting market dynamics.