Demand Increased by 300%: Russians Started Buying Cars from Abroad Before the Increase in the Recycling Fee from November 1

From November 1, the fee for cars with engines more powerful than 160 hp will increase hundreds of times

Demand for cars from abroad in Russia has tripled in the last week - by 300%. The reason is the new rules for the recycling fee, which come into force on November 1.

The new rates will affect cars with engines more powerful than 160 horsepower. For them, the recycling fee will be calculated at a commercial rate. The amounts will increase hundreds of times and can reach millions of rubles. For cars up to 160 hp, preferential rates are maintained in the range of 3.4–5.2 thousand rubles.

The most popular crossovers and SUVs are at risk: Hyundai Palisade and Santa Fe, Kia Carnival, Nissan X-Trail, Mitsubishi Outlander and Pajero Sport, Toyota RAV4 and Highlander, BMW X3, X5 and 5 Series. Hybrids and electric vehicles over 160 hp will also become more expensive, including Chinese models Li L7 and Zeekr 001.

Due to the upcoming price increase, buyers are actively buying up the last available batches of cars from Japan, Korea and Germany. Queues are already being recorded at ferries and customs terminals, and dealers are working in an enhanced mode. According to them, there are no more than two weeks left to complete the paperwork under the old rules.

Experts warn: orders will still be accepted under the previous conditions until the end of this week. From November, all risks for additional expenses for the recycling fee will fall on buyers. This means that the price of the car may increase even after customs clearance.

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