Production of a new version of the Sollers ST8 pickup with a more powerful gasoline engine and automatic transmission has started at the UAZ production site. The model with the updated powertrain will go on sale in August in two trim levels.
The main change is a new two-liter gasoline engine, which was previously used in the Sollers ST9 model. The engine develops 224 hp and delivers 390 Nm of torque. It is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission with a torque converter and manual gear selection.
Compared to the current ST8 version, the new variant received a significant power increase. The current gasoline pickup is equipped with a 2.4-liter engine with 204 hp and 320 Nm of torque, which is only offered with a manual transmission.
To install the new powertrain, engineers had to modernize the car's design. The engine compartment and floor panel elements were modified to adapt the pickup for a different engine and transmission combination.
The payload capacity of the Sollers ST8 remained at 900 kg. The model's production is organized using a full-cycle technology: body parts are stamped, and cars are welded and painted at the site.
The pickup's design uses Russian components, including galvanized metal for body parts, individual elements of safety systems, and electronic control units.
The cost of the new version has not yet been disclosed. Currently, the gasoline Sollers ST8 with a manual transmission is sold at a price of about 2.92–3.02 million rubles, and the diesel modification with a 136-hp engine is estimated at about 3.02–3.12 million rubles.