PSA Group plans JV in Iran to sell Citroen cars

The PSA Group and Saipa, Citroën's historic partner in Iran since 1966, have signed a framework agreement to create a joint venture to produce and sell Citroën vehicles in Iran.

The announcement comes exactly a month after the PSA Group signed a JV with Iran Khodro to produce the latest-generation vehicles in the Middle-Eastern country.

This 50/50 joint venture lays the foundations for a strategic partnership between the two companies. It will cover the entire value chain, from the design stage right through to vehicle marketing. Manufacturing will take place at the Kashan plant in Iran, which will be 50%‑owned by the PSA Group.

The joint venture will invest more than €300 million (Rs 2,293 crore) in manufacturing and R&D capacity over the next five years. The agreement will be backed up by technology transfers and a significant level of local content. It will take effect following the signature of the definitive agreement, scheduled for late 2016.

The end of the ramp-up of the first Citroën vehicle will be reached in 2018 in Kashan plant.

Present in Iran since 1966, the Citroën brand will be staging its comeback in the country with the launch of three vehicles specifically designed for the local market. Citroën models will be sold throughout the country via a network dedicated exclusively to the brand.

Commenting on the new agreement, Carlos Tavares, Chairman of the PSA Group Managing Board, said: "This agreement opens up a new chapter in our history of cooperation with SAIPA. Our aim is to provide our Iranian customers with modern vehicles that meet the highest comfort, safety and technology."