Hyundai’s sixth overseas manufacturing facility is now officially in business as the Russian plant in Saint Petersburg begins the production of the Solaris, a sedan specifically made for Russia. The Russian’s plant is the most modern Hyundai assembly plant in the world, and creates 1,300 new jobs.
The plant currently employs more than 1,300 workers, many of whom were trained at Hyundai factories in Korea and the Czech Republic. Hyundai said in September that it aims to create 5,300 jobs by 2012, together with eleven parts suppliers. HMMR (Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Russia) is equipped with the latest assembly technology, providing a high level of automation in the production process. At several stations, for example, 85 percent of the welding is automated.
The plant’s annual capacity is 150,000 vehicles, while this year’s production target is 105,000 units.
“This is a historic moment, not only for Hyundai, but for Russia, as we are the first foreign automaker to operate a full-cycle manufacturing plant here,” said Gui-Il Chun, General Director of HMMR, a fully-owned subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company. “We are now truly part of Russia and we will focus on supplying customers with the best products at the best time.”
As for the car, Hyundai Solaris, it’s a tailor-made model designed for Russia’s weather and drivers, and is powered by Hyundai’s Gamma engine, delivering superior horsepower, torque and fuel efficiency in a compact, lightweight package. Hyundai’s Gamma engine, delivering superior horsepower, torque and fuel efficiency in a compact, lightweight package.
Some of the special options on this model include a larger-than-average four-liter washer fluid reservoir with fluid-level sensor to warn drivers when a refill is required, a robust 60Ah battery for improved cold-start performance and a heater duct for rear-seat passengers, as well as front-seat heaters, side-mirror heaters and a heater for the windshield wiper rest.
