Dmitry Pronin is set to assume the role of Chairman of the Board at Moskvich Joint Stock Company, the Moscow automobile plant. The announcement confirms Pronin will lead the company through its next phase and guide its strategy on manufacturing, operations, and long-term growth. The move comes after Renault, the former foreign owner, exited the Russian market last year. Renault did not hand over production technology, design documents, or essential components needed to manufacture vehicles at Moskvich, making the factory’s return to full-scale production a challenging undertaking.
Pronin emphasized that, under these conditions, starting production required rebuilding capabilities that were essentially rebuilt from the ground up. He described a wide field of opportunities for Moskvich, with a focus on developing a coherent operating strategy and identifying priority areas where production processes could be strengthened, streamlined, and modernized. His perspective highlights a forward-looking plan that aims to restore productivity while integrating new practices and standards across the plant.
Presently, Pronin serves as the managing director of Moskvich. The board composition remains undisclosed, as the joint stock company has opted for discretion regarding its governance structure at this stage. This lack of detail has not dampened expectations about the plant’s strategic direction or the pace of its operational advancement.
Reports from the plant indicated that the main conveyor had become operational, marking a significant milestone for Moskvich. The company has laid out an ambitious production plan for the year, targeting around 50,000 vehicles to roll off the lines. Of these, about 8,000 to 10,000 units are expected to be electric motors, signaling a deliberate shift toward electrification as part of the plant’s broader modernization efforts. The approach reflects a broader industry trend toward smarter manufacturing, efficiency, and the adoption of electrified propulsion where feasible, aligning Moskvich with evolving market demands and regulatory environments.
The reinforcement of Moskvich’s leadership and the reopening of its production line occur at a time when the Russian automotive sector is navigating a rapidly changing landscape. With the absence of parent-level support from Renault and limited access to previously used designs and components, the company is prioritizing internal capability building, supplier re-engagement, and workforce training to sustain operations. Strategically, the company is expected to invest in process optimization, quality control, and risk management to ensure consistent output and product quality as production volumes scale. This trajectory aims to reestablish Moskvich as a competitive player in the domestic market while exploring potential export opportunities and partnerships that can complement its current manufacturing footprint.