Asia Tech Wire (May 17) -- The Turkish government is in advanced talks with Chinese electric car makers BYD and Chery about investing in factories.

Mehmet Fatih Kacir, Turkey's Minister of Industry and Technology, said in an interview that BYD and Chery are in-depth discussions on investment and construction of factories in the country.

He said the talks have made great progress and hoped to reach agreements as soon as possible.

He also revealed that the Turkish government is also in talks with BYD's Chinese counterparts SAIC and Great Wall Motor.

Turkey is an ideal base for exporting to the EU market, Kacir said.

He added that any decision to open an automotive plant in Turkey would also bring superior battery investment opportunities for Chinese companies.