Import-Substituting Radial Bearings Production Begins at Kursk Bearing Plant APZ-20

On March 3, the Industrial Development Fund announced that import-substituting radial bearings have entered serial production at Kursk Bearing Plant APZ-20. The newly launched production line is focused on supplying domestic light commercial vehicles and trucks manufactured by GAZ, KAMAZ, and UAZ. The initiative supports industrial localization goals while reinforcing the supply chain for automotive components within Russia.

Serial Production of Import-Substituting Radial Bearings

The plant has officially commenced serial production of import-substituting radial bearings designed for gearbox applications in commercial vehicles. These bearings are engineered to meet stringent automotive industry standards, ensuring reliability, precision, and durability under demanding operational conditions.

Annual Production Capacity and Investment

The projected annual output is expected to reach up to 500,000 units. Total investment in the project amounted to RUB 189 million, including RUB 144 million provided as a preferential loan through the Industrial Development Fund’s Automotive Components program. This financial support enabled rapid scaling of production capabilities.

Advanced Manufacturing Infrastructure

To support the serial production of import-substituting radial bearings, the company installed automated turning and grinding lines along with an automated bearing assembly line. These upgrades improve dimensional accuracy, process consistency, and production efficiency.

Performance and Quality Standards

The newly developed import-substituting radial bearings are intended for gearbox applications, delivering high precision and reduced noise and vibration levels. Enhanced quality control processes ensure compliance with automotive standards and long-term operational stability.

Full Localization and Domestic Supply Chain

A key milestone of this project is achieving a 100% localization rate. All materials used in manufacturing the import-substituting radial bearings are sourced domestically. The primary steel suppliers include A. A. Ugarov Oskol Electrometallurgical Plant and Beloretsk Metallurgical Plant, reinforcing the national industrial ecosystem.

Strengthening Russia’s Automotive Components Sector

The launch of import-substituting radial bearings production contributes to reducing dependency on imported automotive components while strengthening domestic manufacturing resilience. By ensuring stable supply for commercial vehicle OEMs, the project enhances industrial self-sufficiency and long-term sectoral sustainability.

With localized materials, automated production lines, and government-backed financing, the serial production of import-substituting radial bearings represents a significant step in advancing Russia’s commercial vehicle manufacturing capabilities.