Production of the liftback version is under way, with its launch in the first European markets due in late January 2013. It will be followed in the spring by output of the new Octavia wagon.
Russia’s new scrapping fee could limit sales in the country, but GM doesn’t expect to have problems finding customers somewhere for the 80,000 units to be built at its Asaka plant in 2013.
The move to add SEAT distribution is part of a strategy to establish or improve the presence of VW’s Spanish subsidiary in new markets. Sales are targeted at 1,500 units in 2013.
The JV called Alliance Rostec Auto, which is registered in the Netherlands, will serve as a stable, long-term operator of AvtoVAZ, maker of the Lada brand. Renault plans to hold a controlling 50.1% stake by mid-2014.
In addition to the weak market in several European countries, another problem facing the Tychy facility is its lack of a new model that would improve its utilization rate.
Opel’s deputy CEO tells workers at a meeting in Bochum today that the halt to production is planned to coincide with the end of the current Zafira Tourer’s lifecycle, which is expected in 2016.