Yes, I know about them and they are backed by GM... But GM (in Russia) is the majority owner of "Niva" and manufacture's care in Russia and the Ukraine. Ford makes cars in St Peterberg and Chrylser owns a minority portion of Volga. Volga also has rights to instal Chrylser engines.
Here's what I think, based on what I've found so far. I think GM is one of the group's behind this sale and is using one of its JV's to make the deal. I think this distributorship will be in St Peterberg Russia, which by design is the gateway to Western Europe and Russia (I know this because I've brought Drilling Rigs in from Germany through St Pete). This is also where "GOSTS" and "SNiPs" are developed for technology, when items (such as the H2 Oxy) need to get "certified" by the authorities. I've got Vladimir (my security chief) on the trail of the GOSTs and SNiPs to see who's lobbying to get this type item "certified." If its sold in Russia, it will have to have a GOST and SNiP Certificate stating its approved by the authorities. This process takes about 20 days (been there & done that many times with oilfield technology) and if the items are not Gost & SNiP'd, they will sit in customs until they get clearance.
Ok, with all that, I think this "Toshkent" entity in St Petersberg is the key and with the authorities there, and these units being "ditributed in Russia and Western Europe" then St Petersberg is the ideal location.
Hope this help...IMO, this is where its at!
