Russian Automaker Producing Vehicles Without Standard Safety Features
AvtoVAZ has started building vehicles without airbags, antilock brakes and other safety features because international sanctions have blocked imports of needed parts.
AvtoVAZ has started building vehicles without airbags, antilock brakes and other safety features because international sanctions have blocked imports of needed parts.
AvtoVAZ, a Russian automaker, has started building vehicles without airbags, antilock brakes and other safety features because international sanctions are blocking imports of needed parts
The manufacturer had shut down its plants over the sanctions but resumed production this month when the Russian government loosened vehicle safety regulations.
"This is a very retrograde step," David Ward, executive president of the Global New Car Assessment Programme, which advocates for global safety standards, told NBC News.
The auto manufacturer is building its popular four-door sedan, the Lada Granta, without airbags, ABS, electronic stability control or seat belt pretensioners. The vehicle also does not meet emission standards in neighboring countries.
AvtoVAZ was part of Renault until May, when the French automaker turned the company over to the Russian government in protest of the Ukraine invasion.
Originally posted on Auto Dealer Today
More Showroom
California Hybrids Reach State Record
The Golden State still leads the country in electric-vehicle registrations, but much like the rest of the U.S. its hybrid market share is up while full electrics stabilize after a dramatic first-quarter dip.
Read More →
My Mercedes in the U.S.
The German brand debuted its studio dealership concept for the first time in the states in Los Angeles, tapping Americans’ penchant for creative distinctions.
Read More →
Used Sales Hit Summer Drag
The vacation season, combined with high prices, has dented deliveries and added to inventories, though supply is still slim enough to keep listings elevated.
Read More →
California Launches EV Rebate Program
Participating automakers are matching the state's $13.5 million investment in new electric-vehicle rebates scheduled to take effect later this summer.
Read More →
OEM Poll Sees Industry Evolution
Kerrigan Advisors’ survey of automakers finds that tariffs, technology, network tightening and other factors are poised to reshape auto retail.
Read More →
The Trade-In Paradox
Retailing older cars with confidence in today’s market is a matter of establishing and following a clear process that can turn greater profit for auto dealers as they aim to meet used-unit hunger.
Read More →
Focus on Vehicle Cabins
The market for interior materials will grow in coming years as automakers look to meet consumer demand while staying competitive with changeups to sourcing and included features.
Read More →
State Follows Federal Warning on Auto Ads
The Massachusetts attorney general cautioned the state’s automotive dealers to be upfront with the consuming public about their vehicle prices or risk punishment.
Read More →
European EV Market Hits Record
Seven out of the top 10 electric vehicles sold so far in 2026 in Europe are by European brands, and automakers are seeing the power train fill up their order books.
Read More →
Used EVs Outpace New
While North American electric-vehicle sales remain down year-over-year, May sales saw a 3% increase from April’s numbers as used EVs led the market.
Read More →