On Friday, the Cuban government introduced the first Russian-manufactured vehicle assembled on the island: a car from the UAZ assembly line, put together at the Empresa Integral de Servicios Automotores (EISA). This launch coincided with the visit of Russia's Deputy Prime Minister, Dmitry Chernyshenko, to Cuba, where Cuban and Russian officials highlighted the "strengthening of industrial ties between the two nations."
Chernyshenko not only attended the ceremony for the first UAZ Patriot vehicle assembled in Cuba, but he also drove the new car around the premises of the Cuban company EISA to mark the commencement of production. These vehicles were previously showcased at EISA's stand during the International Transport and Logistics Fair, an event aimed at attracting investments to address the severe crisis in the transportation sector.
Last year, the Cuban government entered a partnership with the Russian company ECHO-Export SRL to assemble and repair UAZ brand vehicles. The initiative was presented at the Cubaindustria 2024 exhibition, aiming to boost bilateral economic relations and modernize Cuba's transportation infrastructure, as stated by Miguel Ángel Pedroso Madin, Business Director at EISA.
Initially, the agreement includes the assembly of Patriot and Pickup models, with plans to eventually assemble Profi brand light cargo vehicles. The goal is to reduce imports, directly "improve" transportation in Cuba, and utilize these vehicles' adaptability for various economic sectors, according to sources.
Russian and Cuban businessmen mentioned last year during the signing of the agreement that the Pickup models could be converted into hearses, addressing one of the major issues in the transportation sector. UAZ has had a presence on the island for two decades and plans to offer after-sales and warranty services to enhance the sustainability and longevity of the vehicles, with regular supplies of Russian parts, as explained by Ruslan Ignatev, Technical Director and Deputy Representative of ECHO-Export SRL.
Insights on Cuba's Automotive Industry and Russian Collaboration
What is the significance of the UAZ vehicle assembly in Cuba?
The assembly of UAZ vehicles in Cuba marks a significant step in strengthening industrial ties between Cuba and Russia, aiming to modernize Cuba's transportation infrastructure and reduce dependency on imports.
How does the Cuban government plan to address transportation issues with this project?
The Cuban government plans to address transportation issues by assembling adaptable vehicles that can serve various economic sectors and by converting some models into hearses to tackle specific shortages in the sector.
What future plans do UAZ and EISA have for their collaboration?
Future plans include the assembly of light cargo vehicles under the Profi brand and providing after-sales services to ensure vehicle sustainability and longevity through regular supply of parts from Russia.