Currently, GM has three assembly facilities spread across Russia, but the Michigan automaker is hoping to take advantage of the fast-growing market, whcih grew by about 40 percent last year. Despite its geographic size, Russia falls under GM Europe's authority, which makes it the regional office's fastest-growing major market, especially in comparison to flagging Western Europe.
Lee told Reuters that production of the Chevrolet Niva SUV, a rugged and inexpensive four-wheel-drive built in Tolyatti, Russia, in a partnership with AvtoVaz, will nearly double from 70,000 to 120,000 units annually.
Russia is one of Chevrolet's most diverse markets; the bowtie brand's lineup includes everything from the full-size Tahoe SUV to the Daewoo-based Lacetti (which was sold in the United States as the Suzuki Reno and Forenza).
