The automotive sector is characterised by an extensive distribution and after-sales network between manufacturers and end customers, comprising distributors, authorised dealers, service centres, independent repairers, spare-parts manufacturers and digital sales channels. Competition law is therefore relevant not only to vehicle sales, but also to maintenance, repair, spare parts and access to technical information throughout the economic life of the vehicle.
In Türkiye, vertical relationships in the motor vehicle sector are subject to a sector-specific block exemption framework. In the practice of the Turkish Competition Board, matters such as authorised service agreements, selective distribution systems and spare-parts distribution are assessed in detail within this regulatory framework.
The transition to electric vehicles, direct online sales models, connected-vehicle data and software-based services are further expanding the competition law agenda of the automotive sector. KFD Consulting assesses dealer and service networks, sales policies and new distribution models of automotive companies from a competition law perspective. Matters such as resale price maintenance, territorial or customer-based sales restrictions, rules concerning online sales and access to after-sales services are considered when the commercial structure is being designed.