Turkey’s Automotive Exports in 2025: How Electric Vehicles Are Opening New Global Markets
In 2025, Turkey’s automotive sector reached an unprecedented milestone, cementing its status as the nation’s undisputed export champion. Total exports from the industry—including both main manufacturers and suppliers—climbed to a record $41.5 billion, reflecting an impressive 11.6-12% increase compared to the previous year. This performance was driven by a combination of resilient European demand, favorable euro/dollar exchange rates, and the sector’s growing competitiveness on the global stage.
Vehicle production in Turkey rose by 4% to approximately 1.42 million units, while exported vehicle volumes grew by 4.4% to around 1.06 million units. Although export volumes remained below the historical peak of 1.33 million units set in 2017, the sharp rise in value terms highlighted the industry’s ability to command higher prices through premium products, technological advancements, and strategic market positioning. Europe continued to dominate as the primary destination, absorbing roughly 72.5% of exports (approximately $30.11 billion), with key markets including Germany, the UK, France, Italy, and Spain.
Amid these strong overall figures, the most transformative development in 2025 was the explosive growth of electric vehicles (EVs) within Turkey’s automotive ecosystem. Domestically, fully electric car (BEV) sales surged by around 80-90% year-over-year, reaching approximately 190,000 units. This impressive volume captured a 17% share of passenger car sales—aligning Turkey almost exactly with the European Union average (also around 17%) and elevating the country to Europe’s fourth-largest EV market, trailing only Germany, the UK, and France.
This domestic EV boom was powered by a mix of international brands like Tesla and emerging local champions, most notably Togg, Turkey’s homegrown electric vehicle manufacturer. Togg’s models, particularly the T10X SUV and the newer T10F sedan, led the national EV sales charts and demonstrated Turkey’s growing capability in producing high-quality, competitive electric vehicles. Togg not only captured a significant portion of the local market but also achieved strong safety ratings (including five-star Euro NCAP scores) and began controlled exports to Europe, starting with Germany in late 2025. Initial shipments included hundreds of vehicles, with ambitions to scale toward thousands in the near term.
While traditional automotive exports—primarily internal combustion engine (ICE) and hybrid vehicles—remain heavily concentrated in the European Union, the rapid maturation of Turkey’s EV capabilities is paving the way for meaningful diversification into new global markets. The domestic success proves that Turkish manufacturers possess the technological know-how, established supply chains, and production infrastructure to meet international electrification standards, including those set by the EU.
Togg stands at the forefront of this export push. Having solidified its leadership in Turkey, the brand is actively expanding internationally, with Germany serving as the initial bridgehead into Europe. Positive reception there—bolstered by over-the-air software updates, a seamless digital purchasing experience via the Trumore app, and perceptions of Togg as a “European-style” manufacturer—suggests strong potential for further growth across the continent.
Beyond Europe, the rise of EVs positions Turkish exporters to tap into accelerating adoption in emerging regions. Markets in the Middle East, Africa, and parts of Asia are seeing rising demand for affordable, sustainable mobility solutions, where Turkey’s competitive pricing, proximity, and established trade ties could provide a significant edge. Although EV-specific exports from Turkey remained relatively modest in 2025 (as the focus was on building domestic momentum and initial European footholds), industry experts highlight substantial untapped potential. Alignment with global green transition policies, investments in battery and component production, and continued competitiveness could drive exponential growth in EV-related exports in the coming years.
Turkey’s automotive sector thus offers compelling opportunities for international businesses and exporters. Whether in conventional vehicles, hybrids, or the fast-emerging EV and component categories, the industry’s momentum—fueled by electrification—creates pathways to both established and emerging markets amid the worldwide shift toward sustainable transport.
For more in-depth insights on export strategies, sector trends, and opportunities across Turkey’s dynamic industries, explore our Exporter category.
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