Turkey’s automotive sector has expanded into a huge industry for Turkey and Europe. Among European Union countries, Turkey is the largest bus producer, third largest light commercial vehicle producer and third largest truck market. Turkey is the 17th largest automotive producer in the world. Turkey’s automotive sector stands out for its ability to attract major international producers such as Renault, Mercedes-Benz, Ford Otosan, Otoyol, Toyota, Hyundai and Honda. There are nine companies with truck production facilities and 10 companies involved with bus and minibus production. Companies are drawn to Turkey for its growing local market and promising neighboring export markets.
The increase of Turkish automotive production has expanded the automotive parts and service industry making automotive exports first in total exports of Turkey. The Turkish automotive parts industry has become an integrated part of the global automotive industry. Turkish automotive parts are compatible with brands including GM, Mercedes, Ford, BMW, and Toyota. Due to the industry’s large capacity, wide variety of production, and high quality, 90% of locally produced parts are used in the production of vehicles that are exported or directly go to the world part market.
There are about 4,000 auto parts manufacturers in Turkey with about 70% of them being small and medium sized businesses. These agile firms are in direct contact with automotive manufacturers and produce almost all parts and components. At present, the local parts and components production includes, but not limited to, engines, power train parts and components, brake and clutch parts and components, suspension systems, security systems, seats, and auto glass.
The high quality of Turkish auto parts manufacturers is continuously improved. Many Turkish auto parts manufacturers have quality certificates such as ISO 9000 and companies without the certification are exerting efforts to reach it. The first “European Quality Award” earned by a Turkish company was in the auto parts sector and numerous others in the industry have since received it.
For more information on Turkey’s automotive industry:
Automotive Distributors’ Association
www.odd.org.tr
Automotive Manufacturers’ Association
www.osd.org.tr
Authorized Automobile Dealers Association
www.oyder-tr.org
Association of Automotive Parts & Components Manufacturers
www.taysad.org.tr