Karel has produced Turkey's first domestically developed Android multimedia system for Ford Trucks

Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, Karel, together with its subsidiary Daiichi, has once again demonstrated Turkey's production and engineering capabilities in the field of automotive electronics with its Android-based in-vehicle multimedia system. Developed in accordance with global automotive standards, the Android Multimedia System (In-Vehicle Infotainment – ​​IVI) has been put into mass production for Ford Trucks.

Karel, one of Turkey's leading technology companies, has achieved another significant milestone in the field of automotive electronics. Developed through a strong synergy between Karel and its subsidiary Daiichi in R&D and engineering processes, the Android Multimedia System was specifically designed for the F-MAX, the flagship heavy commercial vehicle of Ford Trucks, a brand with over 60 years of experience in the heavy commercial vehicle industry.

This project stands out as a significant indicator that Turkey has become one of the rare ecosystems capable of bringing together design and manufacturing capabilities in automotive electronics under one roof. Implemented with an end-to-end value chain from R&D to mass production, the system represents a strategic step that strengthens Turkey's role in the global automotive supply chain.

World-Class Production Infrastructure

As part of the project, Karel renovated its production infrastructure at its Ankara production center, complying with automotive standards, and commissioned advanced assembly lines. The production infrastructure, modernized to world standards, is structured to meet the quality and traceability requirements necessary for high-precision electronic production.

Thanks to these investments, Karel has acquired a flexible, scalable, and highly reliable production infrastructure that meets global OEM expectations in automotive electronics. This infrastructure, notable for its ability to produce at cost levels competitive with China, also supports the international competitiveness of the Turkish automotive sub-industry.

A System Centered on User Experience

The multimedia system, centered on user experience, is designed to offer a safer, more comfortable, and immersive in-vehicle experience. Integrated into the modern cabin structure of the F-MAX, the 12-inch high-resolution screen combines wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, truck navigation specifically developed for heavy commercial vehicles, and voice command features that enhance driving safety, all on a single platform.

Automotive Electronics Production from Turkey to the World

All engineering and software development processes of the project were carried out by Daiichi, a global company operating in the field of automotive electronics. Daiichi, a Tier-1 supplier to leading automotive brands worldwide, manages automotive electronics projects from Turkey in many markets, primarily in Europe.

This system, developed through the collaboration between Karel and Daiichi, stands out with its flexible production model, ability to develop tailor-made solutions for customer needs, and end-to-end engineering approach. This structure enables the companies to position themselves as automotive electronics players that not only produce but also develop their own technology and compete on a global scale.

The official opening ceremony of the project, which began mass production in 2025, was held during a visit by Ford Otosan officials to the production center in Ankara.

During the visit, Armağan Hazar, Ford Trucks Supply Chain & Cost Management Director, stated: “At Ford Trucks, we aim to advance the experience we offer our customers in the heavy commercial vehicle segment not only through vehicle performance but also through in-vehicle technologies. This Android-based multimedia system, developed and mass-produced in Turkey through the collaboration of Karel and Daiichi, is a concrete demonstration of domestic engineering strength and production capabilities at global automotive standards. These kinds of strategic collaborations with our strong suppliers form an important part of Ford Trucks' innovative, reliable, and competitive product strategy.”

Karel General Manager Altay Doğu added: “As Karel, on our 40th anniversary, we are very proud to produce Turkey's first domestic Android IVI system with our subsidiary Daiichi and a strong business partner like Ford Trucks. Thanks to our renewed production infrastructure, world-class assembly lines, and strong engineering expertise, we are able to offer technologies developed in Turkey to the global automotive sector. This project represents a significant step demonstrating Turkey's design and production power in the field of automotive electronics.”

Daiichi General Manager Ömer Tunç Akdeniz also emphasized the sectoral importance of the project: “This project is a strong indicator of Turkey’s engineering and manufacturing capabilities in the field of automotive electronics. As Daiichi, with our Tier-1 supplier identity, we are focusing on Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) transformation and continue to improve user experience and software-oriented platforms in in-vehicle electronic systems.”