Valdai 12 trucks are already in service - GAZ has begun assembling the first batch of vehicles

The GAZ automobile plant began mass production of the Valdai 12 model. These are medium-tonnage vehicles with a carrying capacity of 7,6 to 8 tons. Now the debut batch of cars is being assembled on the assembly line. It is officially called experimental-industrial.


This means that the first Valdai 12 will be modified during the assembly process. But all assembled cars will be sent for sale.

The question arises why the number “12” appears in the name of the model. After all, its carrying capacity does not exceed 8 tons. Maybe the Gorky plant is hinting that the car will be able to be loaded accordingly? No, it’s just that the total weight of the car is exactly 12 tons.


And overloads are already on the conscience of the owners. Moreover, many people know that domestic trucks have always been distinguished by a high frame strength margin.

The release of Valdai 12 should strengthen GAZ’s position in the class of medium-duty vehicles. After all, it’s no secret that Chinese manufacturers are now actively occupying this niche. If you miss the moment, you may miss the chances.

The manufacturer assumes that Valdai 12 will be popular in the field of construction and urban transportation. Its main advantage is that the car does not fall under the Plato system. This means that it will travel on federal roads without charging a toll.

Despite the development of the Valdai series together with the Chinese, the truck is most likely Russian. Its engine is YaMZ-535. This power unit is capable of developing up to 240 hp. With. But for Valdai 12 they chose a boost of 190 horses.

Interestingly, the engine has a timing gear drive - no belt or chains. And the engine block is cast iron, which indirectly hints at the reliability of the power unit.

The gearbox of the new truck is also Russian. This is a six-speed manual transmission produced by the Gorky Automobile Plant. Thanks to the addition of one more stage, the car turned out to be more economical on the highway.


The cabin is Chinese, from Foton. But it is assembled and painted in Russia. In the near future, it is planned to localize this entire unit, including its internal contents. By the way, the cabin is three-seater and even has a small “sleeping bag”.

The frame of Valdai 12 is solid, without any inserts. Although the length of the wheelbase varies in the range from 3,31 to 5,31 meters.

Valdai 12 received a classic leaf spring suspension at the front. But at the back there are already air springs, which ensures a smooth ride and minimal roll. Plus the rear suspension is height adjustable.

All that remains is to wait for Valdai 12 to appear at dealers.