Hyundai to Begin Electric Car Production in Turkey
hyundai
Hyundai is gearing up to produce electric vehicles (EVs) in Turkey, with its İzmit plant set to begin manufacturing both EVs and combustion engine cars starting in 2026 to meet Europe's rising demand for sustainable mobility.
While Hyundai has not disclosed which EV models will be produced or their exact production volumes, a key indicator comes from Posco, a Hyundai supplier. In January 2024, Hyundai Motor Group ordered 550,000 electric motor components from Posco, scheduled for delivery to the Turkish plant by 2034.
Strengthening Hyundai’s EV Presence in Europe
“The EV models manufactured in Türkiye’s İzmit plant will contribute to Hyundai’s growing electric lineup, supporting the European market’s increasing demand for sustainable mobility solutions,” Hyundai stated in a press release.
Despite the shift towards EVs, the plant will continue to produce combustion engine vehicles, including the i10, i20, and Bayon small crossover, which are already part of its lineup.
Production Capacity and Investment Details Unclear
The İzmit plant currently has an annual production capacity of up to 245,000 vehicles, according to Hyundai’s website. However, the company’s latest statement refers to a “production expansion” without specifying figures or investment amounts for the EV transition.
Previously operated as Hyundai Assan Automotive, a joint venture between Hyundai and Turkey’s Kibar Holding, the plant became fully owned by Hyundai in 2020. Reflecting its strategic importance, Hyundai has renamed the facility as Hyundai Motor Türkiye.
Hyundai’s European EV Strategy
Hyundai already produces EVs in Europe, with its Nosovice, Czech Republic plant assembling the Kona Elektro. However, Ioniq-series EVs and the latest Inster small EV continue to be imported from South Korea.
With the expansion of Hyundai Motor Türkiye, the company aims to further localize production and strengthen its European EV market presence, aligning with growing electrification trends in the region.
