Russia’s Rolls-Royce has begun production. Promoted by no less than Russian President Vladimir Putin, the Aurus Senat has started rolling off a factory in Yelabuga.
Russia first unveiled plans for the Aurus line of cars in 2013. Putin helped promote its limousine model by driving it during his 2018 inauguration as president for a new six-year term. Part of the Kortezh series, it’s also expected to spawn a convertible and SUV as well.
Production of the sedan is unlikely to have a significant impact on Russia’s car industry, but it is seen as a prestige project for the government there. Around 200 to 300 cars will be produced this year, with the Middle East and China being its two key export markets.
The Senat is powered by a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine developed by Porsche. This version develops 590 horsepower and 880 Nm of torque mated to a 9-speed automatic. A 6.6-liter V12 will also become available at a later date. In its most basic form, it costs 18 million rubles or P 11.7 million.
Aurus is a new Russian company that hopes to challenge Bentley and Rolls-Royce at the very top end of the luxury vehicle market. The brand is owned by a Russian automotive research institute known by the acronym NAMI in alliance with Russian automaker Sollers, which also partners with Ford in Russia.
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