Best Motors has announced plans to begin selling SAIPA vehicles from Iran in Russia, with a rollout scheduled for June 2023, according to Analytical Agency AUTOSTAT and information provided by Alexander Stepanov, CEO of Best Motors. The initial lineup will feature the Saina and Shahin sedans alongside the Quik hatchback, with the market launch set to capitalize on the growing interest in compact and affordable cars among Russian consumers. The plan envisions delivering the first thousand cars to Russia by June, with price expectations ranging from 1 to 1.7 million rubles per unit and a warranty coverage of three years or 100,000 kilometers, whichever comes first. The three-year cooperation agreement with SAIPA also includes potential expansion to supply Iranian brand pickup trucks to the Russian market, broadening the product scope beyond passenger cars.
Stepanova noted that the company aimed for a June 1st launch, expressing confidence in meeting the milestone of bringing the initial batch as planned. The targeted quantity for this first shipment was one thousand vehicles, reflecting a cautious but ambitious entry strategy into the Russian automotive scene.
From Stepanov’s perspective, the initial import would rely on a parallel import mechanism without the OTTS framework, signaling a pragmatic approach to overcoming distribution constraints while evaluating potential localization options for SAIPA production within Russia. The dealership network envisioned for the new brand is robust, aiming to establish about 120 car dealerships to ensure broad visibility and convenient access for buyers. The sales target for the first year stands at roughly 10,000 units, a projection that underscores the company’s expectation of strong demand and the importance of rapid market penetration.
In related industry news, Hyundai was reported to have unveiled a facelift of the Sonata sedan, signaling ongoing competition and product updates in the midsize segment. This update provides context for SAIPA’s potential entry as Best Motors positions SAIPA as a cost-conscious option for Russian shoppers seeking reliable mobility without premium pricing.