Russia – The GAZelle NEXT is the third model in the NEXT light commercial vehicle (LCV) range which began production in April 2013 as a drop-side, standard platform, together with enlarged versions. Manufacture of the NEXT crew cabin vehicle started earlier this month
Preparation for NEXT bus production involved the modernisation of the GAZ Specialty LCV Shop, including the installation of new laser lines, robot-aided pipe-bending equipment, an enhanced paintshop and new quality control stations. The high-precision shell welding equipment was developed and supplied by LG.
The new bus is built on the GAZelle NEXT basic chassis, upgraded to meet higher safety and comfort requirements for passenger vehicles. The rear axle and suspension are reinforced, and the body offers corrosion resistance achieved by shell e-coating and the use of zinc-coated steel on the sides and bonnet, plus fiberglass on the rear and front panels, front fenders and roof. The new gearbox generates up to 330 Nm.