The history of the domestic automotive industry is unthinkable without mentioning the name Plant named after Likhachev. This company has gone from a small car assembly workshop to an industry giant producing thousands of units annually. Legendary ZIL-130 and government limousines became symbols of the era, recognizable throughout the world.
The fate of the plant is closely intertwined with the history of the country itself, reflecting periods of rapid growth, military trials and complex economic transformations. Understanding the origins of this auto industry giant allows us to better evaluate the contribution of engineers and workers to the development of the Russian transport system.
Today, the territory of the former plant is gradually changing its appearance, giving way to modern residential complexes and offices. However, the memory of Moscow automobile plant remains in the hearts of millions of people who worked on it or used its products.
The origins of automobile production in Moscow
The beginning of the story goes back to 1916, when the decision was made to build AMO (Automotive Moscow Society). Initially, it was planned to launch the production of licensed Italian trucks Fiat, however, revolutionary events and the Civil War made adjustments to the plans.
For a long time, the company was engaged in repairing equipment and producing simple products not related to the automotive industry. Only in 1924 the conveyor produced the first Soviet truck AMO-F-15, who became the founder of mass production.
- 🏭 1916 - the founding of the plant and the beginning of construction of buildings.
- 🚛 1924 - release of the first Soviet truck with a carrying capacity of 1.5 tons.
- 🔄 1931 - the beginning of reconstruction and the transition to the production of new models.
- 🇺🇸 Cooperation with an American company Autocar to introduce advanced technologies.
It is important to note that it was during these years that the backbone of the engineering school was formed, which later made it possible to create completely domestic developments. The plant became a source of personnel for the entire automotive industry of the USSR.
The era of Stalin and the creation of ZIS
In the thirties, the company reached a new level, receiving the name Stalin and abbreviation ZIS. This time was marked by large-scale modernization and the transition to the production of more powerful trucks, such as the famous ZIS-5.
⚠️ Attention: During the period of repression, many outstanding engineers and plant managers were persecuted, which significantly slowed down some promising developments of that time.
It was during this period that the production of not only cargo, but also passenger vehicles for the needs of the state. Limousines ZIS-101 and later versions became a symbol of power and prestige of the Soviet system.
Facts about ZIS-5
This truck was nicknamed the “three-heel” and was produced in incredible volumes for its time. It was actively used during the Great Patriotic War, and in 1942 production was even evacuated to Ulyanovsk, marking the beginning of the new UAZ plant.
The technical characteristics of the machines were constantly improved. Implemented hydraulic brakes, cabin ergonomics were improved and engine reliability increased. The plant became the flagship of the country's industrialization.
War years and post-war reconstruction
With the beginning of the Great Patriotic War ZIS, like many other enterprises, switched to the production of military products. In addition to trucks, the plant produced mortars, engines for tanks and other equipment necessary for the front.
After the war, active restoration and expansion of production capacity began. The famous “rounded cab” appeared on trucks, and the model range was replenished ZIS-150. It was already a completely new machine, created taking into account the experience of the war years.
| Model | Years of manufacture | Load capacity | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|
| ZIS-5V | 1942–1947 | 3000 kg | Gasoline, 73 hp |
| ZIS-150 | 1947–1957 | 4000 kg | Gasoline, 90 hp |
| ZIL-164 | 1957–1964 | 4000 kg | Gasoline, 97 hp |
| ZIL-130 | since 1962 | 6000 kg | Gasoline, 150 hp |
During this period, the plant received a new name - ZIL (Plant named after Likhachev), in honor of Ivan Likhachev, who led the enterprise for many years. This marked a new chapter in the brand's history.
Golden Age: The ZIL-130 Era
It became a real symbol of the plant and the entire Soviet automobile industry ZIL-130. The development of this machine took a long time and carefully, with the involvement of the best forces of the design bureau. When the first copy rolled off the assembly line in 1962, it became clear: this was a breakthrough.
The car was distinguished by unprecedented comfort, reliability and load-carrying capacity for that time. Hydraulic power steering, a three-seater cabin with a windshield washer and a powerful engine made the “one hundred and thirty” a favorite of drivers.
☑️ Signs of the legendary ZIL-130
Production of this model was also established at other factories in the country, but it was Muscovites were considered standard. Modifications ZIL-130 were used everywhere: from the construction of the Baikal-Amur Mainline to the delivery of food to stores.
In parallel with trucks, the plant continued to produce executive limousines for the party nomenclature. ZIL-114 and ZIL-117 were not inferior to the best world analogues in terms of comfort and safety.
The crisis of the 90s and attempts at modernization
The collapse of the Soviet Union was a heavy blow for the company. The sharp reduction in government orders, the severance of economic ties and the influx of cheap imported equipment have put ZIL plant to the brink of survival.
Attempts to adapt to the market included the production of small quantities of cars, refrigerators and other household appliances. However production conversion it was hard. The old production facilities required colossal investments, which were not available.
- 📉 A sharp drop in truck production volumes in the 90s.
- 🏠 Production of refrigerators and other household appliances to maintain staff.
- 🚛 Attempts to create new models such as ZIL-4362, but in small quantities.
- 🏗️ The process of fragmentation and sale of land assets has begun.
⚠️ Attention: During the crisis of the 90s, the quality of components often suffered due to the use of cheap analogues, which negatively affected the brand’s reputation during this period.
Despite the difficulties, the team continued to work, maintaining unique competencies. Special equipment and fire trucks based on ZIL continued to be in demand among government agencies.
Decline of an era and closure of production
The first decade of the 21st century was the last for car plant in its classical sense. Land in Moscow has become too expensive for industrial use. The process of gradually moving production outside the capital has begun.
In 2012, it was announced that production of trucks at the main site would cease. The remaining capacities were mothballed or repurposed. The final point in history was set in 2016, when production was completely stopped.
Collectors should pay attention to documentation and original ZIL spare parts, which become more valuable every year and can be used for the restoration of museum pieces.
Today the brand ZIL is trying to be revived in a new format, but the scale is no longer the same. The history of the plant remains in textbooks and museums, recalling the time when equipment that is still in use today was created here.
The closure of the ZIL plant marked the end of an era in the history of Moscow and the Russian automobile industry, symbolizing the transition from an industrial economy to a post-industrial one.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Why was the ZIL plant closed?
The main reasons were the economic inexpediency of maintaining huge production areas in the center of Moscow, high wear and tear of equipment and the uncompetitiveness of products against the background of imported analogues in the new market conditions.
Where can you buy spare parts for ZIL-130 now?
Despite the closure of the plant, the market is saturated with spare parts. They are produced by third-party factories in Russia and China. There are also many specialized stores and warehouses storing original spare parts since Soviet times.
Which ZIL model is considered the most popular?
The undisputed leader is ZIL-130. More than a million copies of this car were produced in various modifications. This truck became the most popular truck in the USSR.
Is ZIL currently producing anything?
Legally, the company exists and is trying to conduct activities, including in the field of production of special equipment in small batches and logistics, but there is no talk of large-scale automotive production at the same level.