Dealers talked about the consequences of the collapse of the ruble for the car market

The fall of the ruble, which is observed this week, has already forced automakers to think about another price increase, although the falling demand for new cars does not favor to do it. “We expect in the coming weeks a rush of demand for new and used cars. I think closer to April, their prices will jump substantially. In addition, interruptions in the supply of cars in connection with the coronavirus can be expected in April,” - says Roman Slutsky, General Director of Alarm Motors Auto Holding.

According to Denis Petrunin, General Director of AvtoSpetsTsentr Group of Companies, after meeting the demand in the market, it is possible to calm and reduce the car market by 12-15% in 2020. Demand will shift from new cars to used cars, which will also increase in price after new ones.

“The situation will largely depend on what level the exchange rate would be fixed. But in any case, you should not expect a sharp jump of prices. The increase in the cost of cars will largely depend on the pricing policy of each automaker. Brands that aim to increase market share can temporarily hold back the growth in order to attract additional audiences through marketing support, loan programs and trade-in programs. The positions of competing models will not change, as in case of price increase it will affect all market participants, ” - says Andrey Kamensky, Marketing Director of Avilon AG.