SAIPA
Iranian automaker
Saipa Motor Corporation
Company typePublic company
TSE: TWSE: k[1]
ISIN: IRO1SIPA0001
IndustryAutomotive
Founded1965; 61 years ago (1965)
HeadquartersTehran, Iran
Area served
Iran, Russia, Venezuela, Africa
Key people
Products
RevenueIncrease US$21.7 billion (2023)[citation needed]
Owner
Number of employees
48,000 (2012)[3]
Subsidiaries
Websitewww.saipacorp.com
Footnotes / references
The company was legally classified as "at risk of bankruptcy" under Article 141 of Iran's trade law due to accumulated losses exceeding its capital. As of March 2025, capital increases have partially mitigated this regulatory status, though oversight continues.[4][5]

SAIPA (Persian: سایپا) is an Iranian automaker headquartered in Tehran. Originally established in 1965 as SAIPAC (an acronym for the French Société Anonyme Iranienne de Production des Automobiles Citroën, lit. Iranian Limited Company for the Production of Citroën Automobiles),[6] the company was created with 75% Iranian ownership to assemble Citroën vehicles under license for the Iranian market.[7] Following Citroën's withdrawal in 1975, the company changed its name to SAIPA (Société Anonyme Iranienne de Production Automobile) and has since evolved into Iran's second-largest automaker.[8]

The company is partially state-owned by the Industrial Development and Renovation Organization of Iran (IDRO), the largest shareholder with 35.75% of shares.[9] SAIPA's main subsidiaries include Saipa Diesel, Pars Khodro, Zamyad Co., Megamotor, and Sazeh Gostar Saipa.[10]

Despite generating substantial revenue, the company has faced severe financial challenges due to accumulated losses exceeding its capital. As of 2024, it remained subject to Article 141 of Iranian trade law, though capital increases in 2024–2025 have partially mitigated this status.[4][5]

History

Early years (1965–1980)

SAIPA began operations in 1965, assembling Citroën vehicles for the domestic market.[11] The company's first major product was the Citroën Dyane, marketed locally as the Jyane (or Jian), which entered production in 1968. SAIPA manufactured approximately 120,000 units of the Jyane before production ended.[12]

SAIPA Iranian Citroën Dyane 'Jyane 602' nameplate

The company also produced several variants including a glazed panel van version and the Baby-Brousse, a utility vehicle similar to the Citroën Méhari but with a metal body.[13] A pickup version of the Jyane also appeared. The Baby-Brousse was manufactured from 1970 until 1979.

In 1975, SAIPA began manufacturing licensed versions of the Renault 5 and later the Renault 21. Production of Citroën vehicles ceased in 1980 following the company's name change to SAIPA.[14]

Expansion and partnerships (1986–2000)

From 1986 to 1998, SAIPA produced the Z24 pickup truck, a licensed version of the 1970–1980 Nissan Junior with a 2.4-litre engine. In 1998, SAIPA acquired Zamyad company, which then undertook production of the Z24. Since 2003, this truck has been sold under the Zamyad brand.[14]

Renault 5 production ended in 1994 when Pars Khodro took over the production lines, and the Renault 21 was discontinued in 1997.[14] In 1993, SAIPA established a partnership with Kia Motors, beginning production of the Kia Pride.[15] The Pride, marketed as Saba (saloon) and Nasim (hatchback), achieved 97% local content production.[14][16]

In 2000, SAIPA acquired 51% of Pars Khodro.[17] The same year, the company launched its first domestically designed vehicle, the 701 Caravan minivan, which received a facelift in 2003.[18]

Modern development (2001–present)

From 2001 to late 2010, SAIPA produced the Citroën Xantia under license.[19] Between May 2005 and late 2012, the company assembled the previous generation Kia Rio using parts imported from South Korea.[20]

In 2002, SAIPA introduced the 141, a liftback version of the Saba. The 132 model followed in 2007, and the 111 in 2009.[21] In November 2008, SAIPA introduced the domestically developed "SAIPA National Engine 231".[22]

The Tiba, originally named Miniator, debuted in December 2008 as SAIPA's first domestically designed small car. It featured a 1,500cc four-cylinder engine producing 80 PS (59 kW) with ABS, and averaged 7 liters per 100 kilometers.[23]

In 2012, a pickup version of the SAIPA Pride was introduced as the 151.[24]

In 2015, SAIPA began producing vehicles derived from Chinese manufacturers.[25] In 2016, SAIPA and PSA Group signed a framework agreement to resume cooperation on Citroën vehicles in Iran.[11]

Corporate structure and subsidiaries

SAIPA's production is highly integrated, relying on several key subsidiaries to manage its powertrain and supply chain:

  • Megamotor (SAIPA): Founded in 1993, Megamotor is responsible for the design and production of engines, gearboxes, and axles for SAIPA vehicles. It produces the upgraded M15 Plus engine and the new 16-valve ME16 engine (based on the PSA EC5 engine) with high local content.[26]
  • Sazeh Gostar Saipa: This subsidiary manages SAIPA's extensive supply chain, coordinating with over 846 local parts manufacturers. This network is key to SAIPA achieving high localization rates for its vehicles.[27]
  • Other key subsidiaries: The group includes specialized parts manufacturers such as SAIPA Azin (vehicle seats), Saipa Plascokar (plastic components), Saipa Press (body panels), Iran Radiator, Saipa Glass, and Zar Springs.
  • Zamyad Co.: Produces commercial vehicles, including the Z24 pickup which holds approximately 38% market share in Iran's commercial vehicle segment.
  • Pars Khodro: A major subsidiary that assembles SAIPA, Renault, and Chinese-licensed models.

SAIPA CITROËN

Following the 2016 framework agreement with PSA Group, SAIPA established SAIPA CITROËN as a joint venture subsidiary to manufacture and distribute Citroën vehicles in Iran.[11]

Pars Khodro

In 2000, SAIPA acquired 51% of Pars Khodro, where it has manufactured various models including the Citroën C5.[17]

Since 2018, Pars Khodro has primarily assembled Chinese-derived models alongside the SAIPA Renault Pars Tondar,[28][29] an updated locally built version of the first-generation Dacia Logan, which was previously assembled in a joint venture with Renault (Dacia's parent company).[30] Originally known as the Renault Tondar 90, the company received over 100,000 orders within one week of its March 2007 launch.[31]

Production and market position

SAIPA is Iran's second-largest automaker. In 2024, the company produced 992,102 vehicles, representing a 13.9% decrease compared to 2023.[32] In the first half of 2025, passenger car production fell by 35.6% to 109,619 units compared to 170,417 in the same period of 2024.[33]

For the eleven-month period ending February 2025, SAIPA manufactured 315,131 vehicles, including 192,447 units from the X200 family (Tiba, Quick, and Saina), 44,911 Shahin sedans, 11,568 Changan vehicles, and 65,865 pickups.[34]

Vehicle platforms and technology

SAIPA's modern vehicle lineup is based on two primary platforms:

  • X200 Platform: A platform based on the 1980s Kia Pride architecture. It underpins the Tiba (2008), Saina (2015), Quik (2017), and Atlas (2022).[35]
  • SP100 Platform: A modern platform developed domestically by SAIPA to meet Euro 5 emission standards. It underpins the Shahin sedan (2019), Aria crossover (2022), and Sahand sedan (2023).[36]

Hybrid technology

SAIPA unveiled its first plug-in hybrid (PHEV), the Saipa Aria PHEV, in October 2025.[37] The vehicle features a 20 kWh battery, an 85 kW Atkinson cycle engine, and a 160 kW electric motor.[38] This marks Iran's first domestically developed plug-in hybrid car.[37]

International operations

SAIPA has established international assembly and distribution operations in several countries:

  • Russia and Belarus: In 2023, SAIPA signed a deal valued at €450 million (approximately $497 million) to export 45,000 cars to Russia. However, the operation has faced challenges with distribution and pricing competition.[39][40]
  • Venezuela and Syria: SAIPA is working to revive its joint venture, Venirauto (partially owned by SAIPA and Iran Khodro), to produce SAIPA models locally.[41] Production was launched in Venezuela in 2006 and in Syria in 2007.[42]
  • South Africa and Zimbabwe: The SAIPA Quik is assembled from SKD kits in Rosslyn, South Africa, and marketed as the Mureza Prim8.[43][44] Plans exist to expand assembly to the Willowvale Motor Industries plant in Zimbabwe and facilities in Botswana.[45]

Models

Historic models (by era)

1960s–1980s: Early production

Citroën Jyane 602
Jeep Wagoneer (Ahoo/Simorgh)
Nissan Patrol
Model Period Origin Notes
Citroën 2CV 1960s–1970s France License production
Citroën Jyane 602 1968–1980 France 120,000 units produced
Baby-Brousse 1970–1979 France Méhari-style utility vehicle
Renault 5 1975–1994 France License production
Renault 21 1980s–1997 France License production
Sherkat Sakami Jeep CJ 1970s USA License assembly
Aria and Shahin 1960s–1970s USA Classic models
Jeep Ahoo and Simorgh 1970s USA SUV variants
Nissan Patrol 1970s–1980s Japan License assembly
Opel Commodore 1970s Germany License assembly
Chevrolet Iran 1970s Germany/USA Rebadged Opel
Chevrolet Nova 1970s USA License assembly
Buick Iran 1970s USA License assembly
Jeep Gladiator 1970s USA Pickup variant
Cadillac Iran 1970s USA License assembly

1990s–2010s: Modern partnerships

Later Aria and Shahin models
Citroën Xantia in Tehran
Model Period Origin Notes
SAIPA Z24 1986–1998 Japan Later transferred to Zamyad
Jeep Sahra 1990s USA License assembly
Kia Pride (Saba/Nasim) 1993–2010s South Korea 97% local content
Saipa 141 2001–2016 Iran Liftback version of Pride
Citroën Xantia 2001–2010 France License production
Kia Rio 2005–2012 South Korea SKD assembly
Saipa 132 2007–2018 Iran Pride-based sedan
Tiba 2008–2016 Iran First domestic design (X200)
Saipa 111 2009–2016 Iran Pride variant
Caravan 701 2000–2015 Iran Minivan
Renault Megane 2000s France License assembly
Nissan Murano 2000s Japan SKD assembly
Nissan Teana 2000s Japan SKD assembly
Nissan Roniz 2000s Japan Rebadged Xterra
Zamyad Shooka 2000s Japan Commercial vehicle
Citroën C3 2018 France Limited production
Changan Eado 2010s China License assembly
Pars Khodro V5 2010s China Through Pars Khodro
Dongfeng Rich 2010s China Pickup truck

Current models

Name Image Introduction Type Engine Platform Notes
Saipa 151
(Pride pickup)
2012 Pickup truck 1.3L I4 X200 Light commercial vehicle
Saina
2016 Subcompact sedan 1.5L I4 (87 hp) X200 B-segment, facelifted Tiba
Quik
2017 Hatchback crossover 1.5L I4 (87 hp) X200 Raised suspension variant
Shahin
2019 Compact sedan 1.5L I4 Turbo (110 hp) SP100 C-segment, Euro 5
Aria
2022 Compact crossover 2.0L I4 (150 hp) SP100 Available as PHEV (2025)
Atlas
2022 Subcompact crossover 1.5L I4 (87 hp) X200 Facelifted Quik
Sahand
2023 Subcompact sedan 1.5L I4 (90 hp) SP100 Saina replacement

Subsidiary models

Pars Khodro

Name Image Introduction Notes
H230
2014 Chinese subcompact sedan
H220
2014 Chinese hatchback
H330 Cross
2014 Chinese compact crossover
Pars Tondar/Tondar 90
2007 First-gen Dacia Logan, 100,000+ orders in first week
Sandero/Stepway
2014 Hatchback and crossover variants
Cadila P90
2020 Developed variant of Logan platform

Zamyad Co.

Name Image Introduction Notes
Zamyad Z24
1986 38% commercial vehicle market share, based on 1970s Nissan
Padra 2015 Modern cab on Z24 chassis, based on Isuzu D-Max
Padra Plus 2021 Upgraded Padra with enhanced features
Karun 2022 New pickup with Z24 mechanicals

Other models

Models assembled, distributed, or in limited production:

See also

References

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  2. ^ "توسلی مهر مدیرعامل سایپا شد". IRIB News Agency (in Persian). 2024-03-09. Retrieved 2025-11-18.
  3. ^ "ایران‌خودرو و سایپا؛ رکورددار کمترین‌ بهره‌وری‌ در جهان" (in Persian). Archived from the original on 2016-04-02. Retrieved 2014-01-04.
  4. ^ a b "خطر ورشکستگی ایران خودرو و سایپا با افزایش سرمایه از بین رفت". Digiato (in Persian). 2025-03-01. Retrieved 2025-11-18.
  5. ^ a b "طرح سایپا و ایران خودرو برای جبران ورشکستگی". Farhikhtegan Daily (in Persian). 2023-08-28. Retrieved 2025-11-18.
  6. ^ "Company Overview of Société anonyme iranienne de production automobile". Bloomberg. Retrieved 2017-08-11.
  7. ^ "History". SAIPA. Archived from the original on 2016-05-08. Retrieved 2017-08-11.
  8. ^ Marie & Étienne Christian (2014). 2CV Citroën - Ses dérivés, Baby Brousse, Dalat, FAF et autres (in French). L'Autodrome Éditions. ISBN 978-2-910434-39-7.
  9. ^ "Crouse Company is working with entities sanctioned by U.S." IFMAT. 2019-04-15. Retrieved 2025-11-18.
  10. ^ "SAIPA Groups' Subsidiaries". Archived from the original on 2010-04-14. Retrieved 2024-08-22.
  11. ^ a b c "PSA Group and SAIPA signed for Citroën a framework agreement in Iran". Stellantis Media. 2016-07-20. Retrieved 2025-11-18.
  12. ^ Jïfï Fiala (2012). Citroën 2CV - historie vÿvoj teknika sport. Grada Publishing s.a. p. 407. ISBN 978-80-247-3382-1. Retrieved 2022-01-16.
  13. ^ Hersant, Jacques, ed. (September 1973). "Le Salon de l'Auto 1973: Toutes les Voitures du Monde". L'Auto Journal (in French) (14 & 15). Paris: 223.
  14. ^ a b c d World of Cars 2006·2007. Warsaw, Poland: Media Connection Sp. z o.o. 2006. pp. 156–157.
  15. ^ "Iran 2003: Saipa Pride ends 36 years of Paykan domination in best sellers". Best Selling Cars Blog. 2020-05-19. Retrieved 2025-11-18.
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  17. ^ a b "Pars Khodro: Past and Present". Financial Tribune. 2017-01-14. Retrieved 2025-11-18.
  18. ^ "Saipa". Autolast Ghana. 2025-08-16. Retrieved 2025-11-18.
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  21. ^ "SAIPA 132". Autocade. 2023-11-10. Retrieved 2025-11-18.
  22. ^ "Iran Daily - Domestic Economy - 11/27/08". Archived from the original on 2008-12-01. Retrieved 2025-01-24.
  23. ^ "SAIPA Unveils New Miniator in Iran". Retrieved 2014-12-28.
  24. ^ "وانت کارا، فرزند تازه پراید - مجله پدال" (in Persian). Retrieved 2014-12-28.
  25. ^ "Ario". www.saipacorp.com. Archived from the original on 2021-06-28. Retrieved 2015-12-20.
  26. ^ "پیشرانه جدید کوییک و اطلس مشخص شد ؛ خداحافظی با موتور 8 سوپاپ". Asbe Bokhar (in Persian). 2024-06-19. Retrieved 2025-11-18.
  27. ^ "دومین باخت سایپا در دوران توسلی مهر/حکم جدید غیرسیاسی ترین متخصص سایپا". Khat e Bazar (in Persian). 2024-06-08. Retrieved 2025-11-18.
  28. ^ "SAIPA Renault Pars Tondar - Autocade". autocade.net.
  29. ^ "Iranian Carmaker To Restart Old Dacia Logan Production Without Renault's Involvement". Carscoops. 2020-11-14.
  30. ^ "Renault Pars". Retrieved 2014-12-28.
  31. ^ "Renault drives back into Iranian market". Yahoo! News. Archived from the original on 2007-03-18.
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  34. ^ "Iran's car production exceeds 896,000 in 11 months". ICE. 2025-03-01. Retrieved 2025-11-18.
  35. ^ "Saipa Atlas: Irans nieuwe trots is oude Kia Pride". AutoWeek.nl (in Dutch). 2022-12-13. Retrieved 2025-11-18.
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  38. ^ "رونمایی آریا پلاگین هیبرید؛ گام مهم سایپا در مسیر برقی‌سازی و نخستین PHEV ملی". Khodrobank (in Persian). 2025-10-23. Retrieved 2025-11-18.
  39. ^ "Iran Signs $450M Deal to Export Cars to Russia". Caspian News. 2023-02-23. Retrieved 2025-11-18.
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  41. ^ "Other Sectors - Iran and Venezuela". United Against Nuclear Iran. Retrieved 2025-11-18.
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  43. ^ "South African-made Mureza Prim8 to sell for R196,000". TopAuto. 2020-11-30. Retrieved 2025-11-18.
  44. ^ "Mureza Auto Company to distribute Iranian cars in South Africa". Tehran Times. 2019-09-18. Retrieved 2025-11-18.
  45. ^ "African car for African drivers". Highway Mail (The Citizen). 2019-09-17. Retrieved 2025-11-18.
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