By the close of the year, the Yelabuga production site, once known as Sollers Ford, is planned to roll out new models under the Sollers brand. It is worth recalling that until 2011, Sollers produced Fiat minibuses in Yelabuga, and in the following years focused on assembling Ford Transit. The latter activity ceased after Ford suspended operations in Russia in 2022. This shift marks a notable transition in the company’s strategy and production footprint. According to industry observers, the transition aligns with broader localization goals and government incentives designed to bolster domestic automotive capacity. [citation: Kommersant]
A new phase in the company’s evolution, already coordinated with the Ministry of Industry and Trade and outlined in an additional agreement under the SPIC program, envisions car production on a Chinese platform. The SPIC, a special investment contract, offers localization advantages and other regulatory supports. It is noteworthy that, as reported, the Chinese platform will undergo substantial modifications from the Russian side, with the goal of gradually adapting it to local requirements and manufacturing realities. This approach aims to reduce dependence on foreign platforms while preserving design and supply chain efficiency. [citation: Kommersant]
Historically, Sollers Auto engaged in several joint ventures, including Sollers-Bussan in Vladivostok, where the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado was assembled during 2013 to 2015. That project has since been frozen, and at present Sollers Auto’s principal asset is its stake in UAZ. The current strategic plan emphasizes localization across multiple dimensions, including the launch of diesel engine production, the creation of stamping capabilities, and the manufacture of electronic modules, chassis components, and plastic products. The vehicles will be marketed under the Sollers brand and are described as two light commercial vehicle models with a cabover configuration and a semi-boolean engine arrangement, designed to accommodate a gross vehicle weight ranging from about 2.5 to 4.5 tons. [citation: Kommersant]
The overarching objective remains the assembly of commercial vehicles featuring these new model lines by the end of the year. In parallel, Sollers Auto’s leadership has highlighted ongoing efforts to refine the partner platform to better suit local production needs and regulatory requirements. Nikolai Sobolev, the head of Sollers Auto, has reiterated the company’s intent to secure enhanced rights to adapt and improve the shared platform to align with Russia’s automotive priorities. The broader industry press has noted that the latest developments could influence supply chains, local content requirements, and employment opportunities across the region. Driving coverage and updates are accessible via RuTube, reflecting the company’s effort to keep stakeholders informed through multiple channels. [citation: Kommersant]
In summary, the plan envisions a transition from historical assembly activities toward a more vertically integrated manufacturing model anchored by localization under SPIC guarantees, supported by a newly adapted Chinese platform. If realized, this shift would bolster domestic vehicle production, expand local supplier participation, and potentially reshape the competitive landscape for light commercial vehicles in Russia and neighboring markets. The developments continue to attract attention from industry analysts and policymakers alike, who are watching for practical outcomes such as local content levels, job creation, and the timing of model introductions. [citation: Kommersant]