AvtoVAZ began producing cars under the new SKM brand

The first model to roll off the assembly line will be the SKM M7, available in two versions: an all-metal van and a seven-seat minivan, the AvtoVAZ press service reports.

The release of new products will be organized at the facilities of the VIS-AUTO subsidiary, where commercial modifications of the Lada Granta and Niva are already being produced.

SKM cars are assembled using the semi-assembly method using a painted and glazed body, with engine and chassis parts supplied separately. The company emphasizes that the quality control system fully complies with the standards of the main AvtoVAZ conveyor.

The development of the SKM M7 model was carried out specifically for the Russian market. By order of AvtoVAZ, more than fifty design and technological changes were made to the basic project. Thus, for the passenger version, the seats in the second and third rows were improved, mounts for child seats were added, and an additional interior heater was installed.

Body panels are galvanized. In addition, a removable drain chute now makes the engine easier to access for maintenance. Some components have already been localized – these are technical fluids, batteries and communication modules.

Under the hood of the SKM M7 there is a two-liter gasoline engine producing 137 hp, paired with a five-speed manual transmission.

The rear-wheel drive layout with leaf spring suspension is designed for high loads. Already in the basic version, the car is equipped with air conditioning, airbags, driver assistance systems and a remote engine start function.

Earlier, the most popular crossovers that Russians are driving from China became known.