Turkish electric car project will need foreign support

Subject

The plan for an indigenous electric car.

Significance

Existing joint ventures (JVs) have made Turkey a regional production centre for low-end passenger cars and light commercial vehicles (LCVs), but there is nationalist disquiet that they are produced under international brands. However, some say backing for producing an indigenous electric car from such a base may be just flag-waving.

Impacts

• The project could help the development of a Turkish battery and electric-motor manufacturing sector.
• It could spur further growth in the automotive parts industry.
• Other sector developments could include legislation to allow driverless vehicles on Turkish roads.