23.9.2004
Start of production of the Chevrolet Viva at GM-AVTOVAZ JV in Togliatti, Russia

GM-AVTOVAZ, the joint-venture between General Motors, AVTOVAZ and European Bank of Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), today celebrated the official start of production of the Chevrolet Viva at its manufacturing plant in Togliatti, Russia.

The Viva is based on the sedan version of the Opel compact car and will be for sale under the Chevrolet brand name in the Russian Federation. The Chevrolet Viva is equipped with the proven 1.8-liter 125-horse power Opel engine and will be available in two trim levels. Starting price for the “L” entry model - offered with ABS, electro-hydraulic power steering, electronic traction control (ETC) and engineering adaptation to Russian road and climate conditions - is 11,400 US$. The second trim level “GLS” is priced at 14,790 US$ and offers great value for money with additional features such as dual airbags, electronic front windows, air conditioning, light alloy wheels, and heated front seats.

The Chevrolet Viva will be sold through the Chevrolet dealer network, which now consists of 85 dealers across 55 Russian regions. In addition to the Viva, Chevrolet dealers will continue to sell the popular Chevrolet Niva 4x4, which is also built at the GM-AVTOVAZ JV plant in Togliatti. Sales of the Chevrolet Niva have been strong. Year-to-date (Jan–Sept.), more than 38,000 Chevrolet Nivas were registered. The Chevrolet Viva, offered in the biggest and fast-growing segment of the Russian passenger car market, is expected to add to this success.

Russia is one of very few countries in the world with sales exceeding one million units annually. With a total investment of $338 million, the Joint Venture between GM, AVTOVAZ and the European Bank of Reconstruction and Development represents one of the largest foreign investments in the automotive industry in Russia.