AvtoVAZ has completed a large-scale testing program for the new Lada Iskra, which simulated six years of vehicle operation in the harshest conditions. During the test, the cars went through the equivalent of 150,000 kilometers of mileage — one and a half times more than the factory warranty.
The tests covered both versions of the model — the sedan and the station wagon. The cars were tested for resistance to reagents, sea air, industrial emissions, extreme frosts and heat. Special attention was paid to the corrosion resistance of the body: they were subjected to salt fog, repeated freezing and thawing.
After disassembly, neither through nor even surface rust was found. This result was ensured by the use of galvanized metal, hot-dip galvanizing of the front parts, and a modern anti-gravel coating.
At the test site, 28 cars traveled 150,000 kilometers on highways, cobblestone roads, gravel, and urban simulations. The operation of the car was tested in conditions of rain, dust, and regular washing. A separate stand reproduced six years of exposure to the sun in the southern regions: the air temperature reached 40 degrees, and the body heated up above 80. Following the test results, the engineers strengthened the design of the plastic parts.
The program also included "wear and tear" tests. Robots opened and closed the trunk 26,000 times, the driver's door — 146,000 times, some cycles were performed with force, simulating rough handling. 84 crash tests were also conducted to assess safety.
In total, about 300 prototypes were manufactured for industrial launch.