Uzbekistan’s automotive sector is preparing for a large-scale lineup update and a sharp increase in production capacity. During a meeting with the President on February 13, Ulugbek Rozukulov, Chairman of the Board of Uzavtosanoat, announced the launch of five new car models in 2026, Gazeta.uz reports.
President Mirziyoyev has instructed officials to increase annual production from 460,000 to 510,000 units. To meet this target and satisfy growing market demand, the following models will be introduced:
- New Damas: Production in the Khorezm region has been fully mastered.
- Chevrolet Captiva and Traverse: Updated versions of these popular crossovers and SUVs.
- Localized Kia Models: An expansion of the Korean brand’s lineup assembled in Uzbekistan.
- BYD Yuan Up: A compact electric crossover set to become a flagship product for the Jizzakh plant.
Special emphasis is being placed on the partnership with Chinese giant BYD. The Yuan Up, featuring a range of up to 401 km, was already among the top 10 best-selling electric vehicles (EVs) in the country by the end of 2025. Uzavtosanoat estimates the potential for localized production of this model at 25,000 units per year.
Import statistics from the past year confirm a paradigm shift: imports of gasoline-powered vehicles fell by 40%, while EV imports grew 2.4 times, accounting for 71% of the total import structure.
To stimulate domestic production and support consumers, preferential auto loans are being introduced:
- 12% Annual Interest: For the purchase of locally produced EVs.
- 16% Annual Interest: For imported EVs.
These measures aim to make the transition to eco-friendly transport more affordable, despite the recent increase in the recycling fee (utilization fee) for imported models.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
February 16, 2026