HABAŞ prepares to unveil its domestic car designed by Frank Stephenson by the end of 2026

HABAŞ, known for its operations in the industrial and energy sectors, is preparing to enter the passenger vehicle market with a new model. The company is expected to unveil its domestic passenger car, which it plans to produce at the Kocaeli Şekerpınar facilities it took over from Honda, by the end of 2026.

According to information shared by economist Dr. Barış Esen, one of the project's prominent highlights is the design aspect. The design process for the new model will feature the signature of Frank Stephenson, one of the most renowned names in the automotive world.

DESIGN AND PRODUCTION PLAN

Stephenson is known for his previous work on models such as the BMW X5, the new MINI, the Ferrari F430, the Maserati MC12, and the Fiat 500. Stephenson, who also served as Design Director at McLaren, is considered a key element in the HABAŞ project, bringing a strong design claim to the vehicle's market entry.

According to the strategy announced by HABAŞ Automotive General Manager Hüseyin Urkun, the company plans to enter the passenger car market initially with two different body types: sedan and crossover. The vehicles are aimed to offer hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and gasoline engine alternatives in addition to fully electric options.

The Şekerpınar facility is known as the factory where Honda produced the Civic for many years. It is stated that HABAŞ is preparing this facility for passenger car production again, and the total investment for passenger and commercial vehicles is expected to reach approximately 1 billion euros.

The company's automotive activities are not limited to passenger vehicles. HABAŞ also continues to produce commercial vehicles such as buses, trucks, and an electric tractor unit called SteelPower-e at its facility in the Manisa Organized Industrial Zone. An annual capacity of 15 thousand units is mentioned for this facility.

HABAŞ's new passenger car will be followed as one of the notable initiatives in the field of domestic automobiles in Turkey after Togg. The technical details, pricing, and sales schedule of the model will become clearer as the launch date approaches.

News Source: 12punto