Putin buys Russian in boost to carmaker
Published: 16 May, 2009, 21:37
Edited: 19 January, 2010, 09:33
TAGS: Manufacturing, Putin, Russia
Prime Minister Vladimir Putin is doing his bit for Russia's embattled carmakers during the financial crisis, showing off his brand new set of wheels – a home-grown Niva 4x4.
Journalists watched outside Putin's Black Sea residence in Sochi as he drove the Niva off-road, which is produced by the country's biggest auto manufacturer, Avtovaz.
The PM then invited reporters to take a ride, and said he would use his new SUV to get to nearby fishing hotspots.
Putin then called on others to follow his example by supporting domestic producers during the global economic downturn.
16.05.2009, 21:35
1 comment
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It's a good example to show, and I respect him for it, but the most important thing, is to make cars, that people genuinely want to buy. You can't beat the market, people work hard for their cash, and want the best they can get for it. I am not saying there is anything wrong with this SUV. Indeed I understand it is quite a good vehicle. I am just saying, nationalism is not enough to be successful. We need to be competetive, in mind and action, against our competitors, to strive to do better and better, and be commercially successful. We have made some very good steps, buying in foreign car platforms. The next step must be to create innovation and quality in Russia, to deliver future products worthy of both the domestic and world markets. We must also be careful what segments we address, because certain segments may not be as advantageous as others. Just copying the plan of other car makers, is not necessarily a sound buisness approach for a Russian car maker. Enjoy your motoring!












I know P M Putin means well buying the Russian SUV but a FORD EXPEDITION would have served him much better. Russia needs to start manufacturing Ford and General Motors SUVS. They will get you where you want to go. Also, it would help the American economy. Happy motoring to Russia's "MAIN MAN". Keep on buying those nice, Russian made vehicles.