Turkey's vehicle production drops 7.3% in first eight months of 2026

The Automotive Manufacturers Association (OSD) reported that Turkey produced 841,583 vehicles between January and August 2026, marking a 7.3% year-on-year decline. Passenger car production dropped nearly 19% to 458,169 units, while commercial vehicle output grew, with light-commercial vehicles up 12% and heavy-commercial vehicles up 7%. When tractors are counted, total production reached 854,860 units and the industry's capacity utilization was 59%.

Exports of vehicles decreased 12% to 597,594 units, with passenger car shipments falling 28% and commercial vehicle exports rising 9%. Despite lower volumes, automotive export earnings increased 2.5% to $27.2 billion, keeping the sector at the top of Turkey's export rankings. Passenger car export revenue fell 9% to $6.8 billion, while vehicle manufacturers' export values grew 1% and supplier exports rose 4%.

Domestic sales also slipped 12% to 745,597 units, with passenger cars down 14% and commercial vehicles down 5%. Locally produced cars made up 35% of passenger car sales and 23% of the light-commercial vehicle market.