GÜNSEL: University-Industry-Society Triangle

Near East University continues to integrate its entrepreneurial vision with the “University 4.0” approach, creating projects that encompass education, research, and societal benefits. Leading these projects is GÜNSEL, the 100% electric car developed under its own brand.

Developed on the Near East University Campus, GÜNSEL is not just an automobile project but also an innovation ecosystem and a societal transformation story. Harnessing the disruptive innovation wave created by electric vehicles in the automotive industry, GÜNSEL adopts a multi-benefit approach within the university-industry-society triangle. It stands as a concrete example of Near East University’s innovative and entrepreneurial identity.

100% In-House Design and Development

What makes GÜNSEL truly unique is that all of its core components are designed, developed, and manufactured within Near East University. From its design and engineering processes to key components like the battery pack, software, and entertainment systems, everything is created and implemented on the university campus.

This holistic approach underscores that GÜNSEL is not merely a car but a technological and innovative product born within the university ecosystem. The project has already proven its appeal to society through over 10,000 test drives conducted with 13 fully functional prototypes, while preparations for mass production continue.

From Education to Industry, From Experience to the Future

One of the most striking features of the GÜNSEL project is its integration of education and industry. Engineers working on GÜNSEL also serve as lecturers at the Faculty of Engineering, directly sharing their knowledge and experience with students. This enables students to merge their theoretical education with the latest industry practices.

Additionally, GÜNSEL’s R&D Center serves as a hub for internships and practical training for Near East University students. Here, future engineers gain hands-on experience by directly participating in projects, equipping themselves with expertise in the latest automotive technologies.

Through GÜNSEL Academy, not only university students but also high school students across the country benefit from internships under the “My Profession in My Hands” project, fostering their professional development. Students who successfully complete this program are also eligible for 100% scholarships to pursue associate or undergraduate programs at Near East University.

In addition to serving students, GÜNSEL Academy operates as a sub-initiative that creates innovation and technology-based training and collaboration opportunities for people of all ages, from 7 to 77, across Cyprus. By offering public educational programs, GÜNSEL Academy fosters a culture of lifelong learning and community engagement.

Building on the foundations laid by its solar-powered vehicle projects R25 and RA27, Near East University has now reached the stage of introducing GÜNSEL, the first electric car of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, to the world. The university’s accumulated knowledge and technological infrastructure serve as a driving force in positioning GÜNSEL as a global brand.

Driving the Transformation with Electric Vehicles

GÜNSEL, at the forefront of the electric vehicle revolution, is more than just an environmentally friendly transportation solution. It also represents a groundbreaking innovation in sustainability and technology. This transformation highlights the tangible contributions of university-industry collaboration to society.

Near East University’s emphasis on industrial collaboration has reached a new level with the GÜNSEL project. Developed and manufactured on the university campus, GÜNSEL serves as an educational and innovation platform benefiting society, students, and industry alike.

In this respect, GÜNSEL not only shapes the future of the automotive industry but also holds the potential to transform the economic and social fabric of society. As the creative force behind the electric vehicle revolution, GÜNSEL continues to lead the way, embodying Near East University’s entrepreneurial vision and its University 4.0 approach.