GAZ, an abbreviation for Gorkovsky Avtomobilny Zavod, is an automaker from Russia. Their name if translated in English is Gorky Automobile Plant. They were founded in 1932 and had the name NAZ back then. NAZ is actually an enterprise produced from a five-year plan made by Ford and the Soviet Union.
Their headquarters are located in Nizhny Novgorod in Russia. They are currently the leading producer of vehicles in Russia. They primarily design and manufacture light and medium-duty vehicles, buses, cars, automotive components, heavy-duty trucks, and powertrains.
About half of their market shares belong to the light commercial vehicles part of the company, 58% from the medium-duty trucks, 65% from the bus segment, and 42% from the heavy-duty trucks division.
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GAZ has passed several world wars and from then on, they have been a constant number one choice of Russians whether for commercial vehicles or for trucks and buses. In 1981, they produced their then millionth vehicle.
In 2009, GAZ Group welcomed their new CEO, Bo Andersson. He is the former Vice President of General Motors. The company suffered from major financial crisis in 2008 and having a new CEO would probably solve the recurring problem. Andersson facilitated the renewal of their model range, partnership with international suppliers and after a few years achieved the company’s best financial status yet.
Andersson’s leadership bore great results that’s why he received the Automotive Executive of the Year Award from the International Automotive Forum. He was also named as a Eurostar of automotive industry.
In 2011, GAZ Group reached their top results when it comes to revenue, net profit, and margin. Their revenue topped at a whopping $4.1 billion and they earned $264 million in net profit.
Image source: wikimedia.org
GAZ continues to design and manufacture new vehicles at this date and even added hovercraft to their list of offered products.
Full List of GAZ Car Models
Russia has its fair share of impressive automobiles. And one such car is the GAZ Chaika.
Known to make a lasting impression, the GAZ Chaika was actually used by people of power. Launched way back in 1958, the first version had a then-impressive 145 hp engine. Aside from being used by politicians, the GAZ Chaika’s versatility made it as a go-to vehicle as an ambulance and the like.
For the second (and more prominent version) release during the late 1970’s, the GAZ Chaika was then equipped with modern motoring enhancements. And going with line of luxury and power, the GAZ Chaika was actually ridden by Fidel Castro!
More About GAZ Chaika on Wikipedia
Source: wikimedia.org
Given the track record of GAZ vehicles’ reliability, it is assured that the Gazelle Next will definitely be one of the most trusted vans to drive and own.
More About Gazelle Next on Carmodelslist’s Blog
Image source: wikimedia.org
The GAZ-M20 Pobeda is a car designed and produced by GAZ during the Soviet Union. It was first introduced in 1946. Its production ceased in 1958. It is powered by either a 62 hp inline six or a 50 hp inline four engines.
More About GAZ-M20 ‘Pobeda’ on Wikipedia
Other List of GAZ Automobiles
The GAZ-12 ZIM is a quintessential piece of Soviet automotive history, embodying both the grandeur of mid-20th-century design and the aspirations of Soviet engineering. Here’s a comprehensive description of the GAZ-12 ZIM:
GAZ-12 ZIM: Soviet Luxury with a Classic Charm
The GAZ-12 ZIM, produced from 1950 to 1959, stands as a symbol of Soviet automotive luxury and prestige. Designed primarily for high-ranking officials and dignitaries, this stately vehicle combines robust engineering with an elegant, classic design, making it a notable figure in the history of Soviet automobiles.
Design and Aesthetics: With its imposing, streamlined silhouette, the GAZ-12 ZIM exudes a sense of grandeur and authority. The car features a long, sweeping hood, a prominent chrome grille, and wide, rounded fenders that house its large, luxurious wheels. Its design reflects the aesthetic trends of the 1950s, blending American automotive influences with Soviet styling cues. The vehicle’s full-sized body is characterized by clean lines and a spacious interior, emphasizing its role as a symbol of high status.
Interior Comfort: Step inside the GAZ-12 ZIM, and you’re greeted by an interior designed for comfort and opulence. The cabin boasts spacious seating with plush upholstery, typically finished in high-quality leather or fabric. The large, cushioned seats are designed to offer a smooth and relaxing ride, while the expansive legroom and headroom cater to the needs of its elite occupants. The dashboard, with its vintage instrumentation and elegant controls, complements the overall luxurious feel of the vehicle.
Engine and Performance: Under the hood, the GAZ-12 ZIM is powered by a 3.5-liter V8 engine, which delivers a respectable level of performance for its time. This engine, paired with a three-speed manual transmission, provides a smooth and reliable driving experience. While not designed for high-speed performance, the GAZ-12 ZIM excels in delivering a comfortable and steady ride, suitable for its role as a ceremonial and executive vehicle.
Historical Significance: The GAZ-12 ZIM was intended to represent Soviet prestige and sophistication. It was used for official state functions, including transporting high-ranking officials and foreign dignitaries. The vehicle’s luxurious features and grand appearance were meant to convey a sense of Soviet power and modernity, showcasing the country’s ability to produce high-quality vehicles for its leadership.
Legacy and Collectibility: Today, the GAZ-12 ZIM is a cherished classic among automotive enthusiasts and collectors. Its distinctive design and historical significance make it a prized addition to any classic car collection. The vehicle’s rarity and unique place in Soviet automotive history contribute to its appeal, with well-preserved models often being showcased in vintage car shows and historical exhibitions.
In summary, the GAZ-12 ZIM is a notable example of Soviet luxury engineering, combining a commanding presence with a comfortable and elegant interior. Its role as a symbol of Soviet prestige and its enduring appeal among collectors highlight its significance in automotive history.
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Video of GAZ Car Models
Photos of GAZ’ Different Types of Cars
(Photos Courtesy of https://en.wikipedia.org/)
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