Catalog / GAZ
Gorkovsky Avtomobilny Zavod (GAZ), or Gorky Automobile Plant, stands as a testament to Russia's automotive industry, with a history stretching back to 1932. Founded during the Soviet era in Nizhny Novgorod (then called Gorky), GAZ quickly became the backbone of Soviet industrial might.
The company's journey began with a partnership with Ford Motor Company, producing the GAZ-A and GAZ-AA, licensed versions of Ford models. This collaboration laid the foundation for GAZ's future success. During World War II, GAZ played a crucial role in the Soviet war effort, manufacturing the legendary GAZ-67 light military vehicle, often called the 'Russian Jeep'.
Post-war, GAZ expanded its range, introducing the iconic GAZ-21 Volga in 1956, a car that became synonymous with Soviet luxury and prestige. The Volga series continued to be the flagship of GAZ until the 1990s. Another milestone was the launch of the GAZ-24 in 1970, which served as a reliable taxi and government vehicle for decades.
Interestingly, GAZ was also responsible for producing the Chaika limousines, reserved for high-ranking Soviet officials. The GAZ-13 Chaika, introduced in 1959, was a symbol of power and luxury in the USSR.
The fall of the Soviet Union in 1991 brought significant challenges to GAZ. However, the company adapted to the new market economy, diversifying its product range. In 1994, GAZ introduced the GAZelle light commercial vehicle, which became immensely popular and remains a key product in their lineup.
In recent years, GAZ has focused on modernizing its range, introducing new passenger cars, vans, and trucks. The company has also ventured into electric vehicles, with the GAZelle NEXT electro van showcasing their commitment to future technologies.
Today, GAZ continues to be a major player in the Russian automotive industry, producing a wide range of vehicles from light commercial vans to medium-duty trucks. While facing challenges in international markets due to sanctions, GAZ remains an integral part of Russia's industrial landscape, embodying over 90 years of automotive history and innovation.
The cost of GAZ vehicles varies significantly depending on the model, as the company produces a wide range of vehicles from light commercial vans to medium-duty trucks. In the European market, prices for new GAZ vehicles typically start from around €15,000 for basic commercial models and can go up to €40,000 or more for specialized or higher-end vehicles.
For instance, the popular GAZelle NEXT light commercial van, in its basic configuration, is priced at approximately €18,000. The more advanced GAZelle NN model, featuring modern design and improved comfort, starts from about €22,000.
GAZ's medium-duty trucks, such as the GAZon NEXT, are priced in the €30,000 to €40,000 range, depending on the specific configuration and intended use. It's important to note that prices can vary significantly between different European countries due to import duties, taxes, and local market conditions.
Additionally, GAZ offers various customization options and special-purpose modifications for their vehicles, which can substantially affect the final price. These can include specialized equipment for emergency services, mobile workshops, or refrigerated transport options.
The most affordable GAZ model available in the European market is typically the base version of the GAZelle Business light commercial van. This entry-level model is priced at approximately €15,000, making it an attractive option for small businesses and entrepreneurs looking for a reliable and cost-effective commercial vehicle.
However, the final price of the vehicle can vary depending on several factors:
It's worth noting that while this model is the most affordable in GAZ's lineup, it still offers robust build quality and reliability, characteristic of the brand's commercial vehicles.
The most expensive vehicle in the GAZ lineup is typically a fully-equipped, specialized version of their medium-duty truck, the GAZon NEXT. In its highest specification, with all available options and customizations, this vehicle can cost up to €50,000 or more in the European market.
The price of the top-end GAZon NEXT can vary significantly based on several factors:
It's important to note that these high-end, specialized vehicles are typically custom-ordered and built to specific customer requirements, which significantly influences the final price.
