Due to the shortage of paints, “Lady” is produced only in three colors
The Russian company “AvtoVAZ” decided to produce “Lady” only in three colors due to the shortage of imported paints that fell under the sanctions introduced in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The problem will persist until at least March. This is reported by “Vedomosti”.
According to the dealers, “Lady” in white, black and dark green colors are now available to order. Availability of machines of other shades is possible “no earlier than March”. Previously, cars were available in six to eight colors.
A representative of “AvtoVAZ” reported that the company “is in constant contact with suppliers” and expects to solve the problem “in the next few weeks”.
In “Russian Paints” they said that the main suppliers of paint and varnish materials for the automotive industry were foreign companies. Russian paint manufacturers occupied only 5% of the market. After Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, ready-made paints and raw materials for their production came under sanctions. A replacement is being sought in the countries of Asia and South America.
The federal dealer does not expect a decrease in demand for “Ladies” due to the reduction of the palette, since “the overwhelming volume of their sales was for black and white cars.” In addition, the dealer noted that against the background of the shortage of cars in Russia, color is no longer of fundamental importance – the low price is more important.
- According to the European Business Association, sales of Lada cars at the end of 2022 fell by 46%. Nevertheless, it remains the leader in the Russian passenger car market, which in 2022 fell by 59%.
- Sanctions introduced by the USA and the European Union in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine seriously hit the Russian auto industry. In particular, the supply of imported components was stopped, due to which the AvtoVAZ plants actually went into idleness. A number of foreign manufacturers, including Renault, Volkswagen, Skoda, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Nissan, left the Russian market.
