Whilst the global automotive market continues to face difficulties manufacturers may have found some solace in market demand in Russia.

Ford has announced it will boost production at its plant in Vsevolozhsk, near St. Petersburg, to meet strong demand for the Ford Focus in Russia.

Production volume will rise from an annual rate of 20,000 vehicles in July, to 25,000 from December 2003, with the potential for further expansion up to 100,000 units depending on market demand.

Earl Hesterberg, vice president marketing, sales and service for Ford of Europe, said he believed it would be the 'beginning of a successful and stable growth for Ford in this market'.

Meanwhile, Toyota Motor Corporation has also announced it is to expand operations in Russia, building a factory with the aim of starting production of SUVs in three or four years to penetrate the country's growing car market.

Toyota has now set a broad target of selling 800,000 vehicles in Europe by 2005.