Russians build vans to British designs
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• A Russian factory will be turning out 30,000 3.5-tonne diesel panel vans a year from 1993, if current plans come to fruition. The van is being developed with the help of two British design companies, Ricardo and International Automotive Design (IAD).
'The project is one of a series in which the Soviets are investing in new facilities to produce modern vehicles — ranging from cars to trucks — with the aid of western manufacturers and consultants (Fiat and Ford are among those involved in discussions).
Most of the output from the proposed van plant, which is located 350km from Moscow in Bryansk, is intended for the local market, but some export variants will be produced.
Ricardo is believed to be developing a four-cylinder 2.5litre diesel for the van, while LAD has the contract for the design and development of the vehicle to production level. Much of the finance for the venture is also being generated in the UK.