The Story of the Peykan (Paykan): Iran's Most Iconic Car

Peykan is more than just a car, it is a symbol of Iranian innovation, nostalgia, and everyday life. For millions of Iranians, memories of family trips, city streets, and childhood adventures are connected to this iconic automobile.

In the early 1960s, brothers Mahmoud and Ahmad Khayami founded Iran National, the company that would later become Iran Khodro. Their vision was to create a reliable and affordable passenger car that ordinary Iranian families could own.

After exploring partnerships with several international automakers, they chose the British Rootes Group and its Hunter model. The vehicle was durable, easy to maintain, and well suited to Iran's roads and climate. The agreement also included technology transfer and local manufacturing, helping to establish Iran's automotive industry.

On May 13, 1967, the first Peykan rolled off the assembly line in Tehran. Production grew rapidly, and by the 1970s the Peykan had become a familiar sight across the country. For many years, it was Iran's best-selling car and the first automobile owned by countless families.

Over its nearly four decades of production, approximately 1.4 million Peykans were built. When production ended in 2005, the car had already earned its place in Iranian history.

Today, the Peykan remains a beloved cultural icon. Whether remembered for its simplicity, reliability, or the memories it carries, it continues to hold a special place in the hearts of Iranians around the world.

The Peykan remains one of the most recognizable symbols of modern Iranian history. Inspired by this legacy, MehrGallery has created a collection of vintage Peykan apparel for enthusiasts who want to celebrate this iconic automobile.

Interested in Peykan-inspired apparel? Explore our vintage Peykan collection featuring retro designs inspired by Iran's most iconic automobile.