Russia – The launch began at Gaz Group’s Gorky Automobile Plant, which is part of Basic Element. The medium-duty truck is the third GAZ vehicle released this year, after the 19-seat Gazelle NEXT bus and the double-row, cargo-and-passenger version of GAZelle NEXT light commercial vehicle (LCV).
GAZon NEXT features components from suppliers including: ZF (steering and clutch); Tenneco (shock absorbers); Wabco (braking elements); CSA Castellon (adjustable steering column); Takata (safety belts); and Delphi (HVAC). The truck is powered by a YMZ-354 diesel engine, which gives an output of 149HP, compared with 136HP for current models.
The GAZon NEXT family, which will also include the Sadko NEXT off-roader in 2015, has required an investment of $60m.