New seven-seater Sollers SF1 debuts on the automotive market with a focus on the taxi sector

Russian manufacturer Sollers has officially announced the start of sales of its new seven-seater minivan, the SF1 model, both on its online storefront and in authorized distribution centers. The vehicle arrives on the market with a strategic positioning, being sold from 2,250,000 rubles, which represents an increase of 100 thousand rubles compared to the all-metal van version.

This launch marks an important step for the local automotive industry, as the SF1 is an adapted and renamed version of the Chinese JAC Refine M3, focused on passenger transport needs. Production of the model takes place at the Elabuga factory, where the industrial process has evolved from an initial assembly to a complete and independent production cycle since last spring.

The project aims to serve not only the end consumer looking for a robust family vehicle, but also the service sector and medium-capacity corporate transport. With generous dimensions and an updated technological package, the Sollers SF1 seeks to consolidate the brand’s presence in the comfort-oriented light utility vehicle segment.

• Full cycle production in Elabuga guarantees greater quality control over the final product delivered to customers.
• The starting value of 2.25 million rubles positions the minivan as one of the most affordable options for transporting seven people.
• Adapting the original Chinese project to the region’s climatic and driving conditions was a priority in development.

Structural dimensions and configuration of the internal space for passengers

The Sollers SF1 has physical characteristics that favor the use of space, with a total length of 5115 mm, a width of 1765 mm and a height of 1900 mm. Essas measurements allow for an internal configuration of three rows of seats, designed to offer comfort on long-distance trips or frequent urban journeys. In the second row, the manufacturer chose to install individual seats, which facilitates access to the rear of the vehicle and improves ergonomics for central occupants.

The third row consists of a rear sofa with capacity for three passengers, with a 50:50 folding system, which significantly increases the cargo volume when necessary. Esta Flexibility is one of the model’s highlights, allowing the user to switch between transporting people and moving bulky goods with ease. The internal design prioritizes functionality, using materials that promise durability and ease of cleaning in intensive use contexts.

Mechanical performance and specifications of the turbo powertrain

The engine of the Sollers SF1 is made up of a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, capable of delivering 136 horsepower and 175 Nm torque. Este mechanical assembly was chosen to balance the need for strength to carry seven occupants with fuel efficiency, essential for commercial operations. The transmission is a five-speed manual, sending traction exclusively to the rear axle, a traditional configuration aimed at robustness and lower preventative maintenance costs.

Performance is optimized for the reality of urban roads and secondary highways, where the agility of the turbo engine is present when regaining speed. The choice of a manual gearbox reflects the quest for mechanical reliability in regions where repair infrastructure may be limited for complex automatic systems. Além Furthermore, the suspension was calibrated to support the maximum load without compromising the vehicle’s stability on curves or uneven terrain.

Standard items and onboard technology for safety and comfort

The list of equipment offered in the basic version of the Sollers SF1 is quite comprehensive, aiming to attract buyers who do not give up modern safety and convenience items. The model has dual front airbags, ABS braking system, electronic stability control (ESC) and disc brakes on all four wheels, ensuring safe braking on various surfaces. In terms of comfort, the vehicle has air conditioning, electrically operated windows and rear-view mirrors, as well as a factory-integrated audio system.

An important difference for colder climates is the inclusion of heating in several components, such as the steering wheel, front seats, exterior mirrors and even the windshield washer nozzles. Para To assist in maneuvering, the minivan is equipped with ultrasonic rear parking sensors and LED daytime running lights (DRL). Faróis fog lights are also part of the standard package, increasing visibility in adverse weather conditions during night driving or in heavy rain.

Approval for the taxi sector and application in public transport

A determining factor in the commercial success of the Sollers SF1 is its official inclusion in the register of vehicles approved by the Ministério of the Indústria and Comércio to operate in the taxi sector. Essa certification guarantees that the vehicle meets all technical and safety requirements required for individual public passenger transport. Gestores of fleets see SF1 as an opportunity for renewal with a model that offers low operating costs and high capacity.

The robustness of the platform inherited from JAC, combined with the support of the Sollers dealership network, makes the minivan a reliable work tool for independent drivers and transport companies. Ample legroom and easy boarding and disembarking are features valued by users of app-based transport services or conventional taxis. The expectation is that the model will quickly gain traction in large cities, where demand for seven-seater vehicles is growing for groups and families.

Technological updates on the GAZ production line in Nizhny Novgorod

While Sollers expands its line of minivans, other local manufacturers are also announcing significant technological improvements to their cargo and passenger utility models. Grupo GAZ has recently implemented the keyless access system for the cargo compartment in the Gazelle NN and Sobol NN models with all-metal bodies. Essa functionality, which is now part of the standard features, eliminates the need to press buttons on the electronic key to unlock the rear doors.

• The system simplifies the loading and unloading process for logistics operators who make multiple daily stops.
• Security is reinforced, as the system allows all doors to be fully locked centrally and automatically.
• Electrical modernization replaced the old physical contacts with cable harnesses in sealed boxes in the rear doors.

Technical developments in the central locking systems of commercial vehicles

The implementation of the keyless system in the NN line required a complete modernization of the connection scheme of the electrical components to the vehicle’s on-board network. Anteriormente, the rear doors used groups of spring-loaded contacts that required periodic cleaning to ensure correct operation of the license plate lighting and latches. With the new design, the wiring passes through hermetic ducts that eliminate oxidation and increase the useful life of the electronic locking system.

This technical change reflects a trend towards professionalization and sophistication of Russian commercial vehicles, seeking to match international standards of ergonomics and durability. The focus on ease of operation for the driver helps reduce fatigue during the workday and minimizes downtime for maintenance of secondary components. The integration of such technologies is essential to maintain the competitiveness of local models against imported competitors that are beginning to populate the market.