El Nasr Automotive

Welcome to El Nasr Automotive Manufacturing Company

Founded in 1960, El Nasr Automotive Manufacturing Company is the pioneering force behind Egypt’s automobile industry and remains the first Arab vehicle manufacturer. Headquartered in Helwan, Egypt, El Nasr was established as part of the country's post-1952 Revolution industrialization drive, designed to transform Egypt into a self-sufficient, modernized economy. Over the past six decades, El Nasr has played an instrumental role in shaping Egypt's automotive sector, producing a wide range of cars, trucks, and utility vehicles that catered to the needs of millions of Egyptians.

A Legacy Built on Fiat Partnership

From its inception, El Nasr Automotive’s vision was clear: to deliver affordable, reliable vehicles to the Egyptian market. Collaborating with international giants like Fiat, El Nasr began assembling licensed versions of iconic models such as the Fiat 1100 R, Fiat 1300, and Fiat 128, among others. These compact, cost-effective cars quickly became household names, favored by Egyptian families for their durability and ease of maintenance. The assembly of these Fiat models allowed El Nasr to introduce modern European engineering to Egypt while maintaining affordability for the average consumer.

In the 1980s, the company expanded its range to include more robust vehicles, partnering with Tofaş, a Turkish automotive manufacturer, to produce models like the Nasr Şahin and Nasr Dogan, both of which were based on existing Fiat designs. The relationship with Fiat was pivotal in allowing Nasr to expand its offerings, solidifying its position in the market as a reliable producer of both passenger cars and utility vehicles.

Expanding to Utility Vehicles and Trucks

Beyond its success with passenger cars, El Nasr recognized the growing need for utility and agricultural vehicles across Egypt and North Africa. The company expanded its production to include trucks and other vehicles designed for commercial and industrial use. These vehicles helped support Egypt’s agricultural sector and urban infrastructure, contributing to the nation’s economic growth.

The Nasr 128 – A National Icon

Among the many models produced by El Nasr, the Nasr 128 GLS became an iconic vehicle in Egypt. Launched in the 1970s and based on Fiat’s 128 model, the Nasr 128 remained a bestseller for decades due to its affordability, reliability, and ease of repair. Its production ran for nearly 30 years, and it became a symbol of Egyptian automotive ingenuity. Even as global competition increased, the Nasr 128 retained its place in the hearts of Egyptian consumers as a practical, family-friendly car.

Challenges and the End of Passenger Car Production

Introducing the Nasr Florida: A New Chapter with Zastava

In the 1990s, as Egypt’s automotive market began to shift with more competitors entering the scene, El Nasr entered into a new partnership with Serbian manufacturer Zastava. This led to the introduction of the Nasr Florida, a sleek and modern car that offered Egyptians an updated option without the high price tag of imported vehicles. The Florida was another successful model for El Nasr, continuing the company’s tradition of providing affordable and reliable cars suited to the local market.

A Respected Legacy

El Nasr Automotive’s story is not just one of cars and manufacturing; it’s a story of national pride and industrial ingenuity. The company embodied Egypt’s efforts to modernize and compete on a global scale, becoming a source of pride for the country. Its vehicles are fondly remembered for their durability, simplicity, and local relevance.

Looking Toward the Future

While Nasr’s car production has ceased, the company's role in Egypt's industrial sector remains influential. Nasr’s strong legacy serves as an inspiration for future automotive ventures in the country. Discussions around reviving local car production continue, and Nasr’s contribution to building the foundation of Egypt’s automotive industry will always be remembered.

While El Nasr enjoyed considerable success through the 20th century, the 2000s brought new challenges. The increasing availability of foreign brands like Škoda and the rise of modern safety and comfort standards created stiff competition for Nasr’s models, which had remained largely unchanged in design. By 2009, Nasr ceased production of passenger vehicles, marking the end of an era for the company.

Despite the end of its passenger car production, El Nasr remains an important part of Egypt’s automotive legacy. Over its five decades of manufacturing, Nasr produced more than 402,536 units, with the Nasr Sahin, Nasr Florida, and Nasr Polonez leaving a lasting mark on the Egyptian auto landscape. The company’s impact on Egypt’s industrial and economic growth, as well as its role in making car ownership accessible to millions, is undeniable.

Our Location

El Nasr Automotive Manufacturing Company is located in Helwan, Egypt, the heart of the nation’s automotive industry since 1960.

Headquarters

Helwan, Cairo, Egypt

Contact

9 AM - 5 PM