Russian automakers showcased new models, including electric vehicles and crossovers, at the Innoprom international industrial exhibition in Yekaterinburg. AvtoVAZ, Evolute, Moskvich, AGR Holding, and Great Wall Motor presented their latest offerings.
AvtoVAZ head Maxim Sokolov stated that Lada's future autonomous vehicles will primarily be electric models. He made these remarks at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, noting that autonomous driving technologies will first be integrated into hybrid and electric Lada cars.
Avtovaz CEO Maxim Sokolov forecasts the Russian automobile market to remain at 2025 levels, around 1.4 million units, by the end of 2026. Despite a conservative outlook, the company is operating successfully and has achieved a small profit by the end of May.
AvtoVAZ head Maksim Sokolov stated the company is considering adjusting its production plan due to the strengthening ruble and geopolitical turbulence. A stronger ruble makes exports less competitive, while global instability also influences production decisions.
AvtoVAZ CEO Maxim Sokolov stated that the Lada Niva Travel is currently the company's most profitable model, surpassing the Lada Granta which previously held this position. He also noted positive sales momentum for the Lada Vesta.
Lada Niva Travel is now AvtoVAZ's best-selling model, surpassing the Granta, according to CEO Maxim Sokolov at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum. The Iskra model also saw strong sales, with a racing version prototype and a monocup planned.
Lada showcased its modern Lada Azimut crossover and other models like the Vesta and Niva at the St. Petersburg Economic Forum. A notable exhibit was the 1970 VAZ-2101 'Kopeyka', the first car produced by AvtoVAZ.
Avtovaz reported a more than 4% year-on-year increase in April 2026 sales, reaching 31,200 units. Lada sales also rose over 12% compared to March 2026.
