SAIC Motor, China’s largest carmaker by sales and revenues, began introducing its Maxus cars to Iran and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in early March, following its debut in Saudi Arabia, thereby giving the brand a strong foothold in the Middle East and paving the way for entering into other GCC countries, meaning that Chinese vehicle manufacturers overall have consolidated their Middle East presence.

Iran is one of the eight largest car markets in the world and has great potential. Its carmakers have mature manufacturing programs and its car market has a high entry threshold, making it a bridgehead for the Chinese.

The Maxus debut was on March 8, on the eve of Iran’s traditional New Year, when consumption was strong, giving it a lot of attention. Its tie-up with Iran’s No 3 car manufacturer, the Bahman Group’s subsidiary Bahman Diesel, opens a new chapter for Maxus in the commercial vehicle segment in Iran. The two companies also held talks on new car models and future cooperation.

The first 54 Maxus cars are expected to reach Iran in April.

At the same time, Maxus introduced a variety of models, including business cars, commuter vehicles, and cargo vans, in the UAE, the second largest car market among GCC countries. Its partner, the Naboodah Commercial Group LLC, one of the most influential car dealers in the UAE, helped introduce the vehicles and its vast experience with business vehicles will give Maxus a boost.

The first 40 Maxus cars arrived in the country and orders have already been placed by customers before selling even begins, bringing a bright sales outlook.

Thanks to support from the powerful SAIC Motor, Maxus is steadily moving forward overseas, which will help raise the status of Chinese business vehicles in the world.