Moscow Invests in Moskvich 6 Fleet for Transport Services
In a significant boost for the domestic automotive industry, Moscow authorities have announced the purchase of nearly 50 Moskvich 6 cars for the city’s transport service. The Moscow Transport Service Directorate (MDTO), which organizes transport services and provides vehicles for mass events, will acquire 47 units of the sedan model. These cars are slated for patrol service, underscoring the city’s commitment to utilizing locally produced vehicles in public operations.
The decision follows an earlier order in mid-January for 10 Moskvich 6s, indicating a growing reliance on the brand. This move aligns with broader efforts to support Russian manufacturing and reduce dependence on foreign imports. The Moskvich 6, a modern sedan produced by JSC MAZ ‘Moskvich’, has been positioned as a reliable and cost-effective option for fleet use.
Meanwhile, the company is also expanding its lineup with the new seven-seat crossover, the Moskvich 8, which went on sale in July 2025 with a starting price of 2.98 million rubles (approximately $37,000). However, early sales have been sluggish, with reports indicating that only one unit was sold in the first two weeks. This slow uptake may reflect market hesitancy or competition in the crossover segment, but the Moscow government’s fleet orders provide a steady revenue stream for the automaker.
Overall, these developments highlight the strategic role of Moskvich in Russia’s automotive landscape. With state-backed purchases and new model launches, the brand is striving to regain its footing in a challenging market. As the city invests in these vehicles, it not only modernizes its transport services but also reinforces the importance of domestic production in Russia’s economic resilience.
Shimanta Das 
