Russia to stop production of legendary Volga saloon
It is now end of road for the once an object of desire for the Soviet elites. More than 50 years after its first production, Russia has decided to stop production of low-slung, sleek and black Volga saloon.
Volga saloon was once a preferred car in communist countries and a symbol of stylish living. It gradually struggled to compete with imported cars which flooded Russian automotive market after Soviet Union’s collapse in 1991.
The Oleg Deripaska owned car manufacturer, Gaz, confirmed stoppage of the famous limousine in next two months. The spokeswoman however denied that it had anything to do with global financial crisis. She said that decision was taken much earlier.
Demands of high prices by suppliers and import of cheap cars led to the decision of discontinuation.
Volga’s production was started in 1956 when Stalin was publicly denounced by Soviet leader Khrushchev.
According to the founder of Volga lovers’ fan club, when it first appeared people were proud of their country’s capability to produce elite, beautiful car which was no worse than British or American car. It created a feeling of patriotism.
Until recently, Volga was part of the large fleet of Moscow’s New Yellow Taxi company.
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