ISLAMABAD/MOSCOW: As the departure of Western carmakers narrows options for Moscow consumers, Chinese automakers are filling the gap, forcing the Russian government to overcome their reluctance to embrace Chinese cars and stomach higher-rise prices.
Chinese cars brands
Chinese cars brands such as Haval, Chery, and Geely now account for almost 40 percent of Russia’s latest car sales, figures from consulting company PPK and analytical agency Autostat showed up from less than ten percent in 2022, pouncing on the opportunity left by the exit of firms such as Renault, Nissan, and Mercedes.
But there are teething issues. Reuters spoke to many Russian car buyers – individuals and dealerships – who perceived the quality of some Chinese cars to be lower than Western rivals. Industry experts said Chinese car manufacturers needed to enhance their reputation even as their market share soared.
Stepan, 28, is among those that need convincing, who has increasingly driven Chinese vehicles when using carsharing services. Among his complaints was the smoothness of the drive.
“I managed to buy the Skoda in 2022. If you want my opinion, the difference (with Chinese cars) is huge,” he told Reuters at Moscow’s Favorit Motors dealership.
Czech carmaker Skoda Auto, part of Volkswagen Group and one of many Western automakers that had local car production, is in the final stages of a deal to sell its Moscow assets in the wake of Western sanctions after Russia despatched troops to Ukraine last February.
Alexander, 74, was looking for one encompassing Swedish technology when buying his latest Chinese car.
“I believe that the reliability would improve in time,” he said. “For example, I know that (Geely) Tugella has the Volvo engine. This sold this vehicle for me.”
Russia’s ex-president Dmitry Medvedev said after a visit to China in December that cooperation with Chinese manufacturers was good and consumers’ perceptions were out of date.
