Samand, the National Automobile, Beginning of the production project in 1996, Made in 2000 After three decades from production of Paykan, with no alteration in its form or structure, the need to design and manufacture a new automobile quite different from the present type was strongly felt. Therefore, Iran Khodro management decided to design and produce prototypes of the national automobile, called Samand, in Iran Khodro Research Center with cooperation of Iranian experts and engineers, in line with the national development strategies and in competition with foreign automobile manufacturing companies. In this automobile, the most modern systems of safety and comfort have been anticipated, including seat belts for all passengers, central lock, powered window winders, air conditioner, radio cassette player, left and right wing mirrors adjustable from the interior, etc.
This automobile has been designed by the aid of Iranian and foreign consultants, its engine is 1761 cm3, none of the parts of the present Paykan have been used in it, and it is a completely new and modern automobile with high safety, front axle, numerous accessories, and newly designed body.
It will be even of higher quality than Peugeot 405. By the design and manufacturing of Iran Samand, Iran will join the automobile making countries of the world. Annual production level will start with 5000 units, to be increased gradually to over 200,000 units within five years.
