SAIPA has disclosed plans to roll out vehicles fitted with a new 16-valve ME16 engine to the Russian market. This information comes from a report cited by charkhan.com, which quotes the chief executive of engine maker Mega Motor. The executive stated that production of the ME16 has already started at an Iranian facility. Mega Motor’s top official noted that localizing production is now around 90 percent, and that shifts in supply chains have helped reduce manufacturing costs. The report did not reveal the exact technical specifications of the ME16. Russia is identified as a primary target for the entry of these new vehicles. [Citation: Mega Motor CEO via charkhan.com]
Earlier updates indicated an initial shipment of one thousand SAIPA cars to Russia was planned for June. Reported pricing suggested a range from 1 to 1.7 million rubles, with a warranty of three years or 100,000 kilometers. Best Motors has already published the technical specifications and equipment lists for the Quik hatchbacks as well as the Saina and Shahin sedans. [Citation: Mega Motor CEO via charkhan.com]