Today in Togliatti “AVTOVAZ” Group started the serial production of LADA XRAY. The car has been launched in strict accordance with the production schedule and became the second new LADA model launched in just the past 3 months. It is the first totally new car to be produced on a Togliatti conveyor since 2014. This fast renovation of the model range is happening for the first time in AVTOVAZ history and is intended to fulfil an offensive product strategy.
The first production XRAY in the top trim level and a special “Fresh” color, was equipped the with Alliance Renault-Nissan engine (1.6-liter, 110 hp) and a mechanical 5-speed gearbox. The initial level of localization of the car is over 50%. Investment in the project in the amount of 12 bln RUR was provided by VEB. Start of domestic sales is planned for February 15th, 2016. Prices and trim levels of the XRAY will be announced later.
“This is a significant event for Rostec, AvtoVAZ, and the whole Russian automotive industry. The start of XRAY serial production today is the result of the profound changes that have occurred at AVTOVAZ in the last 5 years. Crossovers and high hatchbacks are traditionally very popular among Russians – their market share in Russia is over 25%. The All New XRAY does not yield the competitors with quality but it will be much more attractive to consumers in terms of price/standard equipment, – said Sergei Chemezov, the head of state corporation “Rostec” and Deputy Chairman of the Board of AvtoVAZ. – I am confident that the production of the new model will not only contribute to the preservation of AvtoVAZ’s market share in 2016, but also will attract new customers and help to expand AV markets.”
Senior Vice-president of Renault Group, Chief Operating Officer of Eurasia Region Christophe Kugler said that the Alliance Renault-Nissan and AVTOVAZ engineers started their joint work in 2011. «Over 100 Renault engineers worked together with their AVTOVAZ colleagues under the motto – we are one team – in order to present the production car today. I believe that XRAY will hit the market and become successful,” – Mr Kugler added.
Nikolay Merkushkin, The Governor of Samara Region, stated that the XRAY together with the Vesta are a new height for AVTOVAZ. «These cars make us confident in the stable future of the factory despite of the market situation. Today I can state that we plan to use XRAY and Vesta for 85-90% of Samara Region officials as their new fleet car».
President of JSC “AVTOVAZ” Bo Inge Andersson noted that LADA XRAY is a car world-class quality, comfort and safety. “Today in Togliatti we start the production of the second LADA model of the new generation. It is assembled by professional people on the most modern B0 production line, along with other LADA, Renault and Nissan models. I thank VEB state corporation that provided RUR 12 bln investment into the XRAY and Renault-Nissan Alliance for the support provided to AVTOVAZ in this joint project. XRAY will play an important role in the strategy of the product offensive that LADA is implementing in 2015-2016.”
LADA XRAY is a compact hatchback carrying crossover characteristics. The car is built on a global B0 platform in cooperation with Renault-Nissan Alliance. About 500 original parts were developed at AVTOVAZ for the new model. XRAY design was created under the governance of LADA Design Director Steve Mattin and carries the new DNA of the brand.
