AvtoVAZ has started production of new SKM brand cars

AvtoVAZ has started assembling cars under the SKM brand. The first will be the M7 model, which will appear in two versions.: an all-metal van and a cargo and passenger minivan. The models of the new brand will share the production site with commercial variations of Lada Granta and Niva and will be produced by a subsidiary of VIS-Avto. The press service of AVTOVAZ told Izvestia about this on March 20.

SKM cars are manufactured using the large-unit assembly method based on a painted and glazed body. Engine and chassis parts are supplied separately. Some of the components and materials have already been localized and come from Russian enterprises, in particular, all the technical fluids of the car, batteries, components of ERA-GLONASS and the telematics system, the company shared.

VIS-Avto's production facility has reproduced a quality control system similar to AvtoVAZ's main assembly line: during the assembly process, cars pass through several technological posts, after which they are tested on roller stands, a complex of artificial bumps and in a sprinkler chamber.

It is stated that SKM cars are designed specifically for the Russian market. At the request of AVTOVAZ, more than 50 constructive and technological changes were made to the basic design. For example, for a seven-seater minivan, the seats of the second and third rows have been improved, the Isofix child seat attachment system has been introduced, and additional heating has been provided to heat the second and third rows of seats. ERA-GLONASS and a telematics system with voice prompts are integrated into the electronics. The hinged body panels and sidewalls received a galvanizing layer, and the engine compartment was put together in a new way: the gutter was removable for easy engine maintenance.

The SKM M7 vans and minivans are equipped with a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine (137 hp; 194 Nm) paired with a five-speed manual transmission and have a rear-wheel drive layout with an axle and a spring suspension designed for high commercial loads. As standard, SKM M7 vehicles are equipped with air conditioning, airbags, driving assistance systems, and remote engine start. Prices and package contents will be revealed closer to the start of sales.

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