The State Duma is advancing a plan to replace imported cars in its official fleet with domestically produced models, introducing 33 Russian-made vehicles intended to substitute foreign options. This development was reported by RIA News, citing a source within the lower chamber of parliament.
Oleg Morozov, who leads the Duma’s control committee, explained that the fleet renewal is being carried out in staged steps. The approach considers the current fleet, the condition of vehicles already in service, and the long-term needs of parliamentary work. He stressed that changes are being implemented with careful attention to maintain uninterrupted day-to-day operations while boosting national automotive production.
Morozov noted that many parliamentarians who drive on an on-call basis in Moscow have historically relied on Ladas. This observation highlights the practical shift toward vehicles that are readily available, cost-efficient, and well-suited to city travel where deputies routinely commute for work across the capital.
According to Morozov, his own official foreign car has logged around 200,000 kilometers. He indicated that after accumulating an additional 50,000 kilometers, it will be replaced with a domestically produced model, reflecting the broader policy to phase out foreign cars as the current fleet reaches the end of its life cycle.
Earlier reporting from Vedomosti, based on a source within the Duma apparatus, confirmed that 33 Lada Vesta cars had been allocated to the State Duma. Deputies will begin using these vehicles this year, with allocations designed so ordinary deputies can choose one, rather than having cars assigned to individuals. Leadership roles, including deputy chairmen and group leaders, will have the option to switch to Aurus vehicles as part of the modernization effort.
In a wider context, the move mirrors ongoing debates about the role of domestic manufacturing in government operations and the symbolism of using locally produced goods for official duties. The transition fits into a broader strategy to support national industry while ensuring reliable transportation for lawmakers who travel within the capital and to regional events. Observers note that the policy aligns with a growing emphasis on self-reliance in key sectors and aims to streamline procurement for public offices by prioritizing domestic brands.
As the Duma proceeds with this fleet renewal, officials emphasize that the primary objective remains functional efficiency and fiscal responsibility. The transition is monitored to ensure service levels for parliamentary work are maintained, with a focus on safety, maintenance costs, and the availability of spare parts for the chosen domestic models. By balancing practicality with national manufacturing goals, the program seeks to demonstrate that government operations can reflect broader economic priorities without compromising daily duties and legislative responsibilities alike.
Looking ahead, the policy may influence future procurement decisions across other government bodies, especially if the domestic models prove robust and cost-effective in real-world use. The conversation around such purchases often centers on reliability, service networks, and the ability to meet the varied transportation needs of officials. The Duma’s experience with the 33 new vehicles will likely inform whether a broader rollout of Russian-made cars becomes standard practice for parliamentary and public sector fleets.
In summary, the State Duma’s fleet transition marks a deliberate shift toward domestic automotive production, with pilots already visible in the use of Lada Vesta and potential expansion to Aurus for higher-level leadership. The program is framed as a practical step to modernize the fleet while supporting national industry, aligning vehicle choices with broader economic and political objectives without disrupting legislative functions.