The automotive parts industry is strong and competitive. It has developed in parallel with the development of Turkey’s automotive industry both in quality and production volumes. Turkish auto parts manufacturers are the pioneers of Turkish companies for the European Quality Award. Brisa was the first winner of this award in 1996 and Beksa the second in 1997. In 2002, Bosch was rewarded by European Foundation for Quality Management with a prize in the operational units category.
The industry is capable of meeting 80% of the needs of local vehicle producers, of supplying the after-sales requirements of the Turkish car park, and of exporting to major European producers. Exports of automotive components are shipped to 170 countries, with 70 % of the total going to the EU. Due to the high export potential and regional advantages of Turkey, foreign capital is showing an increasing interest in the automotive components industry. Currently there are 185 foreign partnerships in the industry, most of which are with European Union companies.
The sector has a diversified product range, comprising of casting, forging, engine, power-train parts and components, electrical equipment, brake and clutch parts, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, body panels, chassis frame and parts, seating and safety components, suspension systems, fixings, various plastics and aluminium parts, batteries and auto glasses. About 700 suppliers operate in various branches of activity. Of these around 300 are large-scale companies producing for OEM.
The value of production and exports of automotive components has been increasing steadily. Production of automotive components jumped from $3.1 billion in 2002 to $5.3 billion in 2004, while exports rose from $1.9 billion to $3.0 billion.
