On 27th September at AVTOVAZ Headquarters (Togliatti) a presentation of a joint venture "GM-AVTOVAZ" was held by top-managers of JSVC. The introduction of the new company was conducted within the framework of the International Quality Conference. There were Petra Peterhansel, Quality Director; Jack Keaton, Material Management Director and Ralph Nickey, Purchase Director.
      JSVC leaders have a great international experience. The production of a high -quality cost-effective vehicle is considered to be the key objective of Russian -American partnership. A first "Chevy-Niva" will be produced in September, 2002 and in 2003 a profit will be gained. By 2004 the annual production capacity of 26,000 cars will be reached.
    AVTOVAZ distributors and suppliers participate in this project. The quality of supplies will be thoroughly controlled, the suppliers will be certified according QS-9000 quality system, which is accepted in the United States.
      - "Chevy-Niva" is a Russian car that is why we definitely will work with Russian suppliers. - Ralph Nickey said. - Moreover, we are going to develop the Russian market of spare parts.
      Petra Peterhansel highly appraised the educational level and skills of AVTOVAZ workers and engineers. "As for development and new technologies we are really sure, that our Russian partners are professionals", - she said.
      JSVC managers predict a great demand for "Chevy-Niva" not only in Russia, but also in foreign markets. Above all, these are South American and South African countries.
      The production plans include making various types of vehicles with different sets of equipment. "Probably, the production of the vehicles for export will start in 2003", - said the head of joint venture John Milonas in the interview to one of the journals.