A Bad Joke Called, "KWID"

Khodrocar – During the first couple months after JCPOA, Renault decided to sign an agreement with Iran's two main automakers, but production of "KWID" became a problem. At that time, both IKCO and Saipa wanted to produce "KWID" but Renault chooses neither of them and signed a contract with IDRO. However, at that moment, production of "KWID" was in a shadow and the main reason was the poor quality of the car. 

A couple days after the pre contract signed, Peyman Karegar, Renault-Pars Co. CEO at the time, said this vehicle may find the production line after a few changes. After two years, Renault contract signed between the IDRO, Naseh Holding and Renault but the agent of Naseh Holding said that it isn’t clear that "KWID" is going to produce under this agreement or not. 

Finally, after the long story of "KWID", chairman of IDRO confirmed that this vehicle will be manufactured according to the agreement with Renault. 

A Phenomenon Called, "KWID"

"KWID" is one of the cheapest models of the french automaker, which were designed especially for India’s market but became popular in other countries over time. 

This car is manufactured in Brazil and India right now and statistics show that Brazilian product is better than Indian. "KWID" was seeking costumers who wants to buy a good looking car with cheaper price tag. "KWID" is the second best selling car in India after "Suzuki Maruti alto 800” then it’s "Hyundai Eon” in third place. 

This car has five different models called "STD"، "RXL"، "RXE"، "RXT" & "RXT (O)" with 0.8 liter engine and two models called "RXT” & "RXT (O)” with 1 liter engine. 

Renualt did his best to decrease the costs of this model. The basic model doesn’t have any airbag and the elite model has just one. The weak engine, low tank capacity and simple body design are the weak points of this car. "Global NCAP" gave 1 quality star to the elite model and none to basic. 

Can "KWID" find a market in Iran?

This car, which was predicted to be the Pride successor would have a price tag up to 35 million IRRs on Iran’s market. However, this car has a 4700$ price tag in India that is equal to 17 million IRRs.

How "KWID" would pass the Iran’s standard test? 

It is optimistic to think that this car would find a market in Iran with low quality options and a high price tag. Right now, the ministry of industry, mine and trade increased the vehicle standards and it would be difficult for "KIWD" to pass them all.

Khodrocar Translator: Amin Zamani