Mazda Motor and Russian automaker Sollers have signed a MoU with the Government of the Russian Federation to explore setting up of an engine production plant at their joint venture Mazda Sollers Manufacturing Rus (MSMR) facility.
The companies will carry out talks with the Russian government on signing the official contract in this regard before the end of the year.
Mazda president and CEO Masamichi Kogai said: "Since operations started in October 2012, MSMR has produced around 80,000 Mazda cars which have gone out to people all over the country.
"We are pleased to have been able to make a contribution to this region by creating employment and helping to develop a culture of Monotsukuri, or manufacturing.
"This success has been possible thanks not only to our great partnership with Sollers, but also to the continued support of the Russian Government, the Primorsky region and the Government of Japan.
"Going forward, Mazda hopes to contribute to the further development of the automotive industry in this region."
Sollers CEO Vadim Shvetsov said: "We are delighted to be expanding our collaboration with Mazda.
"Making use of their vast knowledge and experience in vehicle manufacturing and our unique regional infrastructure and employee team, it will be an honor together to take the automotive manufacturing industry in this region to the next level."
