Itar-Tass reported that Russia GAZ Group and Daimler have signed in the presence of Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin an agreement to launch in Russia of a new facility for the production of light commercial vehicles of the German concern. The document envisages the assembly at GAZ capacities of Mercedes Sprinter light commercial vehicles.

Daimler investments in the organization of the production will exceed 100 million euros. In 2011, Daimler and GAZ will be engaged in the preparation for localization of the production and components, including the modernization of existing production of GAZ commercial vehicles, as well as the creation of new facilities and training of personnel in accordance with new tasks.

The annual production volume will average about 25,000 Mercedes Sprinter vehicles. It is planned to sell the automobiles and organize their servicing through the existing dealership network of GAZ and Mercedes.

(Sourced from Itar-Tass)