Tehran Auto Show Reveals Rebranded Chinese Vehicles Under Sanctions
Iran's 7th International Auto Show reveals a heavy reliance on rebranded Chinese vehicles, including models from Chery and Hongqi, adapted for the local market despite severe Western sanctions.
While major international auto shows increasingly gravitate toward China rather than Europe or the US, Iran recently hosted its 7th International Auto Show in Tehran, showcasing a variety of new vehicles despite heavy Western sanctions.
Rebranded Chinese Models in Tehran
The exhibition featured 80 new models from 35 manufacturers, including vehicles like the Sapir R7, a luxury plug-in hybrid SUV produced by Iran Khodro. Despite being marketed locally as an emblem of elegance with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine generating 292 horsepower, the vehicle is actually a rebranded Hongqi HS3 first unveiled at the 2023 Shanghai Auto Show.
Another prominent vehicle is the Luzano L5, which bears a striking resemblance to the Jaecoo 5 from Chery, a popular model in Israel. Exported from China to Iran as part of bilateral trade arrangements involving metals, the Iranian variant is equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine producing 147 horsepower, a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, adaptive cruise control, and an electronic parking brake.
"The exhibition reveals a heavy reliance on Chinese automotive manufacturing, masking foreign designs under local branding to navigate severe international trade restrictions."
High-End SUVs and Production Realities
Additional exhibits included the Bahman Fidelity Prestige, a flagship SUV manufactured by Bahman that is essentially a rebadged Jetour X70 featuring a 1.5-liter turbo engine with 197 horsepower. Meanwhile, the Tigard G700 Tisan, based on the Chery Jetour T700, boasts a plug-in hybrid system combining a 2.0-liter engine and dual electric motors to deliver approximately 900 horsepower, though its prohibitive cost places it out of reach for most local consumers amidst ongoing economic inflation.
