Khodrocar - The third Kerman Motor Innovation & Technology Opportunities Event (KITONEXT) was held on November 22, 2025, at Shahid Beheshti University. This event is considered one of the most significant innovation programs in Iran’s automotive industry, aimed at fostering realistic interaction between industry and academia, identifying breakthrough ideas, and supporting future-oriented technologies under the leadership of Kerman Motor.
Abolfazl Khalkhali, Kerman Motor’s Vice President of Product Development, emphasized the essential role of universities in technological advancement.
He stated: “Technological development has always begun in universities before reaching commercialization in industry. At Kerman Motor, we firmly believe in this pathway and are confident that collaboration with universities will accelerate the innovation cycle in the country.”
Kerman Motor Enters the Next Era of Mobility
Khalkhali dedicated a major part of his address to the topic of flying taxis (eVTOL), describing them as one of the fastest-growing global trends in transportation.

He noted that Kerman Motor’s future-studies research shows rapid international progress in this field, making domestic entry and investment both necessary and strategic.
Advantages and Significance of eVTOL Flying Taxi Technology
No need for runway infrastructure
Eliminates traffic and reduces travel time by up to 70%
Extremely low noise pollution and near-zero emissions
Very low maintenance costs
Highly reduced risk of crash
Easy adaptability for autonomous operation
Kerman Motor’s Roadmap for eVTOL Development
Khalkhali announced that, following global mobility trends, Kerman Motor has officially decided to enter the eVTOL development sector to secure a share of this future market.
He outlined a 10-year, four-phase development program, progressing from cargo drones to emergency-response applications and ultimately a four-seat flying taxi.
He also revealed the signing of an MoU with Shahid Beheshti University, where the official eVTOL project office will be established. Kerman Motor will provide the necessary facilities and support for university teams to advance this technology.
Hybrid Gearbox Development at Kerman Motor
During the event, Dr. Manouchehr Manteghi—Advisor and Deputy Minister for Transportation Industries at the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade—spoke about global shifts toward intelligent mobility and clean vehicles.
He highlighted the importance of collaboration across the automotive ecosystem and noted recent investments in electric and hybrid vehicle production lines.
Dr. Manteghi added that Kerman Motor has already made substantial investments in electric vehicles and hybrid gearbox development.
With continuing efforts from leading domestic automakers, he expressed optimism that Iran will see widespread production and adoption of clean vehicles in the coming years.
A Strategic Leap Toward Smart and Sustainable Mobility
By focusing on advanced technologies and strengthening ties with academic institutions, Kerman Motor is entering a new phase in the evolution of smart and sustainable transportation in Iran.
From eVTOL flying taxis to advancements in hybrid gearbox systems, the company is positioning itself as a serious contender in shaping the future of mobility.