DS AUTOMOBILES LAUNCHES FIRST STORE IN IRAN

A high-profile ceremony yesterday marked DS Automobiles official launch in Iran, with 200 VIPs and potential DS customers attending the milestone event.

The launch of the brand in Iran follows the October announcement of a deal between DS and ARIAN Group to operate and oversee the automotive brand’s first venture into the Middle East.

In attendance at the event was Yves Bonnefont, CEO of the DS brand, Daryoush Biria, president of ARIAN Group and His Excellency Bruno Foucher, the French Ambassador in Tehran.

"DS brand is undergoing a major step in its international development. Iran is a key country for us and contributes to our ambition of radiating the French luxury know-how in automobile,” said Yves Bonnefont. “The experience of our partner Arian Group is a major asset for success."

Daryoush Biria, President of ARIAN Group, commented, "The DS brand is synonymous with design, technology, refinement and French elegance. We are delighted to be the exclusive distributor of DS brand in Iran and I do not doubt that Iranian customers will be thrilled by these great cars."

Media, VIPs and potential customers attended the event at the newly opened DS STORE, which is located in the northern districts of the city on one of the most attractive avenues, the Andarzgou Boulevard.

In a space of 275 m2, customers can now immerse themselves in the world of DS. A modern facade, sleek design, lacquered furniture, plasma screens, photos depicting Paris, fashion, luxury and design, create an elegant and luxurious atmosphere. The DS models on display are turned towards the entrance to catch the eye of visitors upon arrival.

DS 5, the flagship of the brand, and DS 6, the brand’s powerful and elegant SUV, were launched at the showroom’s opening. The two models are from the ‘Sport Chic’ range, the most prestigious trim with powerful and efficient engines as well as 6-speed automatic gearboxes. All the DS brand’s refinement and attention to detail are featured; all models have premium Nappa leather or semi-aniline watchstrap leather seats, exclusive to DS Automobiles, and full leather dashboards.

The range will be expanded during 2016 with the arrival of DS 5LS, the sedan and other models.

Key figures:

• Iran has a population of approximately 80 million people, of which 70% live in urban areas and 15 million in the metropolitan area of the capital, Tehran.

• Iran is the second population of the Middle East North African region.

• 2/3 of the Iranian population is aged under 30.

• Iran is rich in fossil resources, with 11% of the world’s oil reserves and 15% of its gas reserves.

• The ARIAN Group, specialising in automobile distribution since 2011, stands out particularly in terms of service quality. Based in Tehran, the ARIAN Group imports, distributes and provides after-sales in Iran according to the standards of the brand.

• For further information on DS in Iran visit www.driveds.ir

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About DS Automobiles

A French brand born in Paris, DS Automobiles was officially founded on 1 June 2014. Its stated ambition is to revive the tradition of premium vehicles in the French automotive industry. Drawing on the very best of French know-how, DS Automobiles perpetuates the values of innovation and distinction inherited from the first DS, launched in 1955. Designed for customers looking for a means to express themselves as individuals, the DS range now comprises DS 3, DS 3 Cabrio, New DS 4 and DS 4 Crossback, New DS 5, DS 5LS* and DS 6*. The DS range stands out with exceptional styling, sensations and refinement down to the last detail, together with premium materials and advanced technology such as the Hybrid4x4 hybrid diesel drive train available on New DS 5. Marketed in Europe in DS Stores and dedicated showroom areas in the CITROËN network, DS has its own network of sales outlets in China. For customers, DS has come to represent a brand experience that goes beyond the product to include a range of exclusive premium services. The brand has sold more than 600,000 vehicles since launch. www.dsautomobiles.co.uk. Follow the latest DS news via @DS_UK_Official.