Representatives from a cross-section of the UK motor industry are to take part in a trade mission to Russia, organised by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

Twenty five delegates from 17 companies, including representatives of vehicle designers and manufacturers, component and aftermarket suppliers, visited the British Embassy in Moscow yesterday.

Tomorrow, HM Ambassador to the Russian Federation, Anthony Brenton CMG, will host a mini-trade show at the embassy before delegates show their products and services to up to 100 Russian industry executives, including representatives of Lada and Severstal, who are expected to attend.

SMMT's latest international mission is the third stage of a strategy to develop commercial opportunities for the UK motor industry in Russia. A report looking at the market potential was published last year, shortly followed by a visit by Russian representatives to meet UK suppliers. This week's delegation takes UK companies to Russia for the first time in a process that could lead to a significant presence at the Moscow International Motor Show in August 2005.

Companies involved in the Russian mission include Autorite, Britpart, Chemence, Crozier, Eurocams, Froude Consine, Ideas Factory, ITG, JD Power, Lotus, LTI Vehicles, Lubepack, Motive, Prodrive, Sanden International, Stadco and Ultraseal.