Russian analytical agency, Avto­stat, has reported that the sale of Chinese made cars in Russia has risen by as much as 88% in the 1st quarter of 2012. “In the next few years, we can expect a rap­id growth in sales of Chi­nese cars in Rus­sia,” stated Avto­stat direct­or Ser­gei Tsel­ik­ov.

At present Chinese made cars represent about 2-3% of overall automobile sales in Russia, however Avostat forecasted that it could rise to 10-12% by 2014-15.

The top selling Chinese auto brands in Russia during Q1 of 2012 are Lifan with 4,545 cars, succeeded by Chery with 3,402, along with Geely in 3rd place with 2,766 cars and Great Wall with 2,733. China’s Geely’s sales increased by 212% in 2011 from the year prior to 6,000 units and Lifan’s by 133% to 17,900 units.

Presently, there are two primary assemblers of Chinese cars in Russia. The most significant auto plant with complete set up is Derways in Cherkessk. The plant started a brand new line having a capacity of 100,000 cars yearly in 2010. All of the Geely and Lifan cars sold in 2011 were produced at the Derways plant. Derways also intends to make 40,000 Haima cars by 2014, once the plant is going to accomplish its full capacity.

Great Wall Motors will become the very first Chinese auto manufacturer to start its very own auto plant with no Russian partnership when it launches in 2014 a $383m manufacturing plant in Lipetsk region.