Kerman Motor Begins Local Assembly of the Chinese Luxury Minivan

Khodrocar - In recent years, production and sales of vans and MPVs have gained renewed momentum in the Iranian automotive market. Families have gradually embraced these vehicles as practical options for both city commuting and intercity travel, thanks to their spacious cabins and versatile seating arrangements.

One of the major advantages of MPVs is their generous interior and cargo space, allowing passengers to travel comfortably while enjoying the journey.

Previously, several automakers in Iran introduced and assembled various MPVs, helping to familiarize local buyers with this body style. Some of the most notable examples include the Kia Carens, Souba M4, and Haima 7X.

Now, Kerman Motor is joining the segment by adding a large, family-oriented MPV to its domestic product lineup.

The JAC RF8 will soon enter local production at Kerman Motor’s facilities. The company has already imported the first pilot units of this premium Chinese minivan to initiate the assembly and localization process in Iran.

With this move, Kerman Motor officially joins the group of Iranian automakers producing MPVs, aiming to test market response with the JAC RF8.

Powertrain Options

The JAC RF8 will be offered in two powertrain configurations globally: a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system.

The gasoline variant features a 2.0L turbo engine delivering 250 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission (AT) driving the front wheels.

The plug-in hybrid version combines a 1.5L gasoline engine with an electric motor, producing a total output of 218 horsepower transmitted to the rear wheels via a 3-speed DHT gearbox.

While official details for the Iranian market have not yet been confirmed, it is highly likely that Kerman Motor will offer the gasoline-only version of the JAC RF8 initially.

Dimensions and Cabin Space

The new JAC RF8 measures 5,215 mm in length, 1,895 mm in width, and 1,830 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,100 mm — ensuring generous interior space for all passengers.

With its premium design, advanced features, and flexible seating layout, the JAC RF8 is expected to become one of the most notable new MPV entries in Iran’s automotive market.