Iran Khodro’s Shaul 2 Sells Out: A New Era of Hybrid Power and Advanced Safety Hits the Market
In a significant development for Iran’s automotive sector, Iran Khodro has officially launched the Shaul 2, generating considerable excitement and rapid sales. The mid-size crossover, unveiled at the Mashhad Auto Show, is offered in both gasoline and hybrid variants and represents a major step forward in the nation’s automotive technology and manufacturing capabilities.
Strategic Launch and Manufacturing Partnership
The Shaul 2 is a key product of Iran Khodro’s strategic cooperation with Great Wall Motors of China. Based on the global Haval Jolion Pro platform, the vehicle is being introduced under the domestic “Shaul” brand. This initiative is a cornerstone of a broader strategy to modernize Iran’s automotive offerings, with a focus on transferring advanced technology and increasing the domestic production of parts. The company has outlined an ambitious plan to achieve 70% localization of components by the end of the current Iranian year, a move designed to reduce foreign currency expenditure and strengthen the domestic parts manufacturing industry.
Technical Prowess: Power and Efficiency
The Shaul 2 is available in two distinct powertrain options, both paired with a Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) and an independent suspension system for superior handling and stability.
- Gasoline Version: Features a 1.5L Turbo GDI engine producing 174 horsepower and 270 Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 9.5 seconds and has a combined fuel consumption of 7.5L per 100 km.
- Hybrid Version (HEV): Combines a 1.5L gasoline engine with an electric motor for a combined output of 189 horsepower and 370 Nm of torque. It achieves 0-100 km/h in 8 seconds and boasts an impressive fuel economy of 5.5L per 100 km.
Both versions have been optimized for the Iranian market to ensure compatibility with locally available fuel.
Advanced Safety and Premium Comfort
A major highlight of the Shaul 2 is its comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), placing it at the forefront of vehicle safety in its class. The ADAS package includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking (with intersection detection), blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
The vehicle is also generously equipped with luxury and convenience features, including:
- Six airbags, a 360-degree camera, and a panoramic front view monitor.
- Electrically adjustable front seats with heating and cooling, a panoramic sunroof, and a steering-mounted gear shifter.
- Dual-zone automatic climate control, electronic parking brake, and auto-hold function.
The modern cabin design successfully blends advanced technology with passenger comfort, offering ample rear legroom.
Pricing and Availability
Sales for the Shaul 2 began immediately following its unveiling. The anticipated price is set at 2.2 billion tomans for the gasoline model and 2.5 billion tomans for the hybrid variant. A significant advantage for potential buyers is the vehicle’s backing by Iran Khodro’s extensive nationwide after-sales service network, providing a strong foundation for consumer confidence.
Initial production will involve assembly, with a gradual increase in localization. The company projects a monthly production target of 2,000 units, anticipating that the Shaul 2 will become a best-seller in the crossover segment, offering Iranian families a modern, safe, and efficient driving option.
