Chinese-built trains on the new metro line linking central Istanbul with Istanbul Airport have begun trial operations. The first train departed from Kagithane Station on the European side of the city to Istanbul Airport Station on November 8. The new M11 line is due to open next year.

In January 2020, CRRC Zhuzhou Locomotive (CRRC ZELC) signed the purchase and commissioning project contract for 176 subway vehicles with Turkey's Directorate-General of Infrastructure Investments. The 37.5-kilometre section of the line was built by the Kolin-Senbay consortium.

The Ministry of Transport & Infrastructure awarded the rolling stock contract to CRRC ZELC. The contract requires a 60% localization level, and a design speed of 120 kilometres per hour, making them the fastest metro trains in Turkey.

A China-Turkey joint venture, CRRC-MNG Rail System Vehicles Industry and Trade Ltd., was set up to fulfil the contract.

In 2015 CRRC ZELC formed a European subsidiary, and last year acquired German shunting and medium-haul locomotive manufacturer Vossloh Locomotives.