Denis Manturov, who leads the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Russia, stated that the Gorky Automobile Plant (GAZ) could restart Volga brand production in 2024, according to reports from DEA News. The remark signals a measured comeback plan for a brand long associated with Russia’s automotive legacy, especially as the plant weighs strategic moves to modernize its line and strengthen domestic manufacturing chains.
Manturov added that GAZ is evaluating the selection of a new technology partner who will assist in the continuation of vehicle production in the near term. This mirrors a recent arrangement that GAZ has pursued with Moskvich, aimed at ensuring a stable flow of vehicles while incorporating updated engineering and production practices. The approach underscores a preference for reliable collaboration to accelerate the integration of new technologies on the assembly line.
Industry observers note that bringing a new model to market typically requires several key steps, including design finalization, supplier alignment, and staff training. In this case, experts suggest a development window of roughly eight to nine months for mastering a new model, with an additional buffer period to accommodate testing, certifications, and potential adjustments on the factory floor. Manturov emphasized that a cautious timetable is in place, potentially extending into the next summer as a realistic horizon for resuming production and delivering the first units to dealers and customers.
The Volga model line saw its last new passenger car, the GAZ-3110, leave the production lines in 2004, marking a long pause before any renewed activity around the Volga family. Since then, the plant has explored modernization strategies and partnerships intended to restore its footprint in both domestic and regional markets, while aligning with broader programmatic goals for Russia’s commercial vehicle sector.
Earlier this year, dynamics around Moscow region policing indicated interest in electric mobility, with reports of the Moskvich 3e electric crossover being spotted in police fleets. This observation reflects broader industry trends toward electrification and the potential for legacy brands to re-enter the market with modern, efficient, and compliant electric models. The evolving landscape signals that GAZ and similar manufacturers are watching closely, weighing the benefits of electrification alongside traditional internal combustion offerings in response to regulatory, consumer, and infrastructural developments.