Kish Khodro is an Iranian car company established in 1995 and registered in Kish Island. It was owned by Mohammad Saffari (51%), Bank of Industry and Mine (40%)[1] and Kamran Naghdi, the Managing Director of BMS Automotives Ltd from the United Kingdom (9%) who sold the license to manufacture, designed the prototype and provided the know how and the production plant. The production line was launched in 2000.[2] Company ownership changed to 52%/41%/7% in 2002.[3]
The purpose for creation of Kish Khodro was to produce a vehicle named Sinad.
Models
Their original model was the plastic-bodied Sinad I hatchback (styled as an SUV in press releases) launched in 2000. This was followed by the facelifted Sinad II, which received a larger grille in three compartments.[4] A coupé version, the Sinad III was also presented. In 2003 the Axon 5-door estate version of the Sinad was launched. The development of the car was undertaken by BMS Automotives Ltd of United Kingdom based on an existing Renault model and a concept by International Automotive Design. The air conditioned vehicle named Sinad in Iran and Sultan for export markets has a 1600 cc Renault K7M engine and mechanical components. The Sinad body was manufactured using the Vacuum Injection Shell Process. The Sinad was successfully crash tested and obtained the MIRA/VCA certification allowing the Sinad circulation in the UK, Europe and in other parts of the world. After production of a claimed 900 units in the first year, the company said they would increase their production to 3,600 in 2002.[5] Another source states their 2001 production to have been 238 cars.[4] Their production volume in 2003 was 100 cars.[6]
External links
References
- MIDDLE EAST ECONOMIC DIGEST The advertisers' guide to the Middle East, Emap Business International, 1996, retrieved 6 August 2014^
- Kish Khodro rolls out newsports-utility car Express India, 21 May 2000, retrieved 6 August 2014^
- Iran carmaker eyes expansion Pakistan Economist, 31 December 2001, retrieved 6 August 2014