During the third quarter of 2023, the VGV line of vehicles, a model range from the Chinese state-owned manufacturer Sinotruck, began rolling out across Russia, according to RBC. The rollout marks a significant expansion for the brand in the domestic market, introducing a lineup that blends practical utility with emerging technology.
Initial plans call for bringing 2,000 VGV units into the country by year’s end. The first wave will feature the U70 Pro and U75 Plus crossover models, with consumer access expanding from October 1 to include diesel-powered, all-wheel drive pickups. These early offerings aim to establish a footprint in both urban and regional markets where durable, versatile vehicles are in steady demand.
Looking ahead, the schedule outlines a broader expansion. Starting January 1 of the following year, the VGV catalog will be augmented with E-class SUVs that feature diesel propulsion, a monocoque body design, and all-wheel drive capabilities. In February 2024, light commercial vehicles, including vans and cargo models, are expected to join the lineup, broadening the brand’s commercial and fleet appeal in Russia.
At the start of 2025, it is planned to introduce C-class SUVs, extending the range into a higher segment and appealing to customers seeking larger, more capable sport utilities. The brand will showcase these vehicles in Saint Petersburg at dedicated showrooms branded as “Maximum”. Sales are already underway in Moscow, and the company indicated a broader distribution network spanning numerous major cities across the country. Distributor Novel Distribution LLC has set ambitious targets, forecasting about 6,000 VGV units sold in 2024 and roughly 50,000 units annually within five years, as the brand builds scale and recognizability in the competitive Russian market.
Earlier reports also noted that the market will see the introduction of new Daihatsu Taft hatchbacks in Russia, signaling a broader influx of Chinese and Japanese compact and crossover segments into the local automotive landscape. This evolving product mix reflects a strategic push by international brands to expand regional footprints, adapt to local consumer preferences, and capitalize on growing demand for versatile, value-driven vehicles in Russia and neighboring markets.