Iran’s top automaker sets sights on Russian market

TEHRAN, Iran — Iran’s leading automaker is seeking to prioritize exports to Russia, its CEO says, as both countries reel under Western economic sanctions.

Iran Khodro unveiled the latest model of its crossover Rira vehicle at its factory west of Tehran, where CEO Mehdi Khatibi announced the manufacturer’s ambitions for the Russian market.

“We are going to pay special attention to the Russian market, and we are also thinking of partnering with Russian investors,” he says.

“We have held good negotiations with Moscow. The Russian market, with its capacities, will be one of our important markets,” Khatibi adds.

“We will begin exporting this year” to Russia, he said.

Iran Khodro had previously exported vehicles to Russia, notably between 2007 and 2009, according to Iranian media.

Iran Khodro has finally released their first crossover called the Rira. Of course, actual pictures of said car are very poor quality. It is based off a Peugeot 2008 once upon a time. pic.twitter.com/UhbaItaNhP

— Living in Tehran (LiT) (@LivinginTehran) June 27, 2022