Turkey / Germany – Daimler Buses GmbH (owned by Daimler Truck AG of Leinfelden-Echterdingen, Germany) announced that it has signed a manufacturing agreement with Otokar Otomotiv ve Savunma Sanayi AŞ, the Turkish bus and defence vehicle manufacturer based in Sakarya, to produce select Mercedes-Benz bus models in Turkey from 2026.

Under the agreement, Otokar will assemble complete Mercedes-Benz Conecto city buses (both solo and articulated versions) at its Sakarya plant, with Daimler Buses supplying all major components and specific production equipment. Production of the Conecto will transition to Otokar in September 2026, serving both the Turkish and wider European markets.

T&BB spoke to Kai Wolfer, Corporate Communications at Daimler Truck, who explained that Daimler will also provide on-site support and expert-led training for Otokar employees involved in the Conecto production process. He emphasised that contract manufacturing allows Daimler Buses to respond flexibly to market demand while it continues to invest in its own facilities.

The Hoşdere plant in Istanbul, which has been in operation since 2007, remains a key part of Daimler Buses’ network. While it continues to manufacture a wide range of buses and chassis, Daimler said it is also being repositioned as a centre for electrified bus production, particularly battery-electric and future hydrogen-powered models.

Financial details of the agreement have not been disclosed. Daimler Buses added that the partnership with Otokar strengthens its manufacturing presence in Turkey, a strategic export hub for Europe, the Middle East and North Africa.