Both GAZ and KamAZ go back to work this week, after an extended Christmas break. But what are they going to do with their time? Nobody is buying at present, and the Russian +16 tonne market is predicted to drop by some 24 per cent this year.
Signs of life are few and far between. Russian market growth has been based on two factors over the past couple of years; a buoyant construction market and a significantly inflated oil price. Neither are in evidence anymore, and, whilst we don't doubt that oil will become more expensive over time, it isn't likely to do so this week.
So Volvo looks likely to achieve a first in opening a truck plant whilst simultaneously mothballing it. GAZ, according to this report, is keen to have a chat with HMG about a bit of help, whilst KamAZ may be forgiven for wondering quite what impact the Daimler - Beiqi Foton JV may have on its future.
Bleak. Very bleak.