SAIPA Puts Presale of New Car on Hold

SAIPA’s recently appointed CEO has put off the presales of the Quick model “due to some quality concerns”. After visiting Quick’s production lines, Qasem Jahroudi, who replaced Mehdi Jamali last week, said the presales, which was to start this week have been postponed, Tasnim News Agency reported. “The vehicles quality must be reviewed. Some new options may be added to the car,” he was quoted as saying. He did not elaborate. Quick is a small hatchback equipped with a 1.5-liter, 87-hp engine coming along with a 5-speed continuously variable transmission (CVT). The vehicle’s exterior design is reminiscent of China’s Brilliance models. The company claims it will comply with Euro4 emission standards. SAIPA has put a price tag of 420 million rials ($10,500) for the model.  According to company officials, the car was due to be delivered early next year. Given the excessively high price for a small city car, market observers are of the opinion that Quick will have to struggle to compete and attract buyers.