Iran Carmakers Expanding Operations in Syria, Azerbaijan

Iran Khodro and SAIPA are planning to expand their overseas operations. SAIPA is poised to increase production in Syria and IKCO has started manufacturing its Samand model in neighboring Azerbaijan.
IKCO has established a joint venture with Azeri automotive company AzerMash OJSC named Khazar Car Company. The company is based in Neftchala, 168 km south of Baku. 
Khazar manufactures the Dena sedan. According to IKCO Press, the JV started production of another Samand model during the weekend.
IKCO’s rival SAIPA also has plans to expand its presence in Syria. A SAIPA production unit opened in the Arab country in 2007 and is based in the Industrial City of Hassia in Homs. The company says it wants to increase both production and models in the country.