Cuba has entered into an agreement with Russian company ECHO-Export SRL to assemble and repair UAZ vehicles on the island. An initial delivery of between 300 and 500 vehicles is expected, according to official sources.
This project, unveiled at the Cubaindustria 2024 exposition, aims to strengthen bilateral economic relations and modernize Cuba's transportation infrastructure, according to Miguel Ángel Pedroso Madin, director of Business Affairs at the Empresa Integral de Servicios Automotores (EISA) in Cuba, who spoke to Sputnik.
The agreement initially involves the assembly of the Patriot and Pickup models, with plans to later include light cargo vehicles from the Profi brand. The goal is to replace imports, directly improve transportation in Cuba, and capitalize on the adaptability of these vehicles for various economic sectors, the source noted.
Regarding the Pickup models, Pedroso Madin detailed that the intention is to convert them into hearses, addressing one of the major issues in the transportation sector.
With these plans, UAZ, which has been present on the island for 20 years, also aims to offer after-sales services and warranties to support the sustainability and longevity of the vehicles through the periodic supply of Russian parts and components, added Ruslán Ignátev, technical director and vice-representative of ECHO-Export SRL.
Although no exact delivery date has been specified, the project will proceed according to needs and demand, but most importantly, it will depend on the bilateral collaboration ties, which are currently in good standing.
Cuba is well-acquainted with the capabilities of these vehicles, particularly the UAZ 452 models, known locally as "Guasabita," which are primarily used in the military and health sectors.
About a year ago, UAZ promised to assemble SKD model vehicles on the island following agreements from the XI Business Committee Meeting between Cuba and Russia, held in Havana, the company confirmed to Russian newspaper Izvestia.
The first batch of vehicles was scheduled for delivery to Cuba between July and August 2023, UAZ executives told the aforementioned media outlet, confirming that the decision followed negotiations between the Ulyanovsk automotive plant representatives and unnamed Cuban companies. However, the agreement did not materialize, as the deal did not come to fruition.
Additionally, the Cuban side showed interest mainly in the UAZ Profi trucks and ambulances based on the UAZ Loaf model, a panel vehicle used in the military sector.
FAQ About UAZ Vehicle Assembly in Cuba
Here are some frequently asked questions about the recent agreement between Cuba and Russia to assemble UAZ vehicles on the island, providing more insights into the project and its implications.
What models of UAZ vehicles will be assembled in Cuba?
Initially, the project will focus on assembling the Patriot and Pickup models, with plans to later include light cargo vehicles from the Profi brand.
What is the purpose of this agreement between Cuba and Russia?
The agreement aims to strengthen bilateral economic relations, modernize Cuba's transportation infrastructure, and replace imports by assembling and repairing UAZ vehicles on the island.
When are the first UAZ vehicles expected to be delivered to Cuba?
Although no exact delivery date has been specified, the project is expected to proceed according to needs, demand, and bilateral collaboration ties.
What additional services will UAZ provide in Cuba?
UAZ plans to offer after-sales services and warranties to support the sustainability and longevity of the vehicles through the periodic supply of Russian parts and components.