```html
Changes have been made regarding the import of electric and externally rechargeable hybrid vehicles. The conditions imposed on electric vehicles last November are now also applicable to plug-in hybrid vehicles.
The Ministry of Trade's significant regulation regarding the import of electric and externally rechargeable hybrid vehicles has been published in the Official Gazette. Plug-in hybrid vehicles imported from countries outside the Customs Union and Free Trade Agreement (FTA) will be affected by the regulation.
CHANGES AWAITING BUYERS AND SELLERS
In addition to the decision published last November, plug-in hybrid vehicles will also require at least 20 authorized service stations to be established by the importer themselves in 7 geographical regions, certified by the Turkish Standards Institute (TSE).
Additionally, individuals responsible for the maintenance and repair of electric or externally rechargeable hybrid vehicles must possess a qualification certificate specifically related to the maintenance and repair of electric or externally rechargeable hybrid vehicles issued by TSE or the Vocational Qualifications Authority. The published communiqué will come into effect 30 days later.
WHAT ARE THE CONDITIONS BROUGHT BY THE NEW REGULATION?
Recently, various brands, especially from China, have been coming to Turkey and conducting sales. Some brands are partnering with special service centers for maintenance and repair, and if after-sales support services are not available, citizens can be left in a difficult situation.
THE AIM IS TO PROTECT THE CONSUMER
Vehicles brought to Turkey and sold without subsequent support were waiting a long time for parts from abroad in case of any accident or malfunction. Moreover, when there was no authorized or knowledgeable person to repair and maintain the vehicle, millions of lira worth cars were left in front of repair shops like scrap. With the new conditions, both consumers will be protected, and vehicles, which are national assets, will be repaired and reintegrated into the economy more quickly in case of malfunctions or accidents.
For the after-sales assembly, maintenance, and repair of the imported goods, it will be required that at least 20 authorized service stations be established by the importer themselves in 7 geographical regions, certified by the Turkish Standards Institute (TSE) according to TS 12047 and TSE K 646 standards.
QUALIFICATION CERTIFICATE MANDATORY FOR MAINTENANCE PERSONNEL
Individuals responsible for the purchase, sale, maintenance, and repair of electric vehicles must possess a qualification certificate specifically related to the purchase, sale, maintenance, and repair of electric vehicles issued by TSE or the Vocational Qualifications Authority.
CALL CENTER OBLIGATION
For each brand to be imported, it will be required to provide service with a Turkish call center established in Turkey with at least 40 personnel. It will be ensured that the manufacturer of the imported goods has an authorized representative established in the country. Conditions must be met together to provide a written commitment that the processes related to the monitoring, control, and inspection of battery systems are accepted by the importer.
WHAT IS THE 30-DAY CONDITION FOR CAR PURCHASE?
The regulation published in the Official Gazette will come into effect 30 days later, and brands that do not meet the conditions after this date will not be able to sell in Turkey.
```
|