Changan launches first EV plant in Thailand

Changan will establish giant warehouse of car parts in Thailand capable of delivering within 24 hours
An undated image of Changan EV cars. —  Changan Motors
An undated image of Changan EV cars. —  Changan Motors

Changan Motors has officially inaugurated its first electric vehicle (EV) production facility outside of China, in Thailand. 

The new plant is in Thailand's Rayong Province and is part of an investment worth 300 million USD or approximately 10 billion Thai baht. 

Changan's first Thailand EV plant

The factory will have the capacity to make 100,000 vehicles annually and has five basic locations including, welding, painting, general assembly, engine assembly, and battery assembly. 

This opening was also accompanied by Changan's manufacture of its 28.59 millionth automobile, a testament to its expanding international reach.

Changan's move into Thailand is in step with Thailand's ambitions to have 30% of all automobiles electric by 2030. 

Thailand's Minister of Industry Akanat Promphan received the move with open arms, noting it is a demonstration of high confidence in Thailand's economy and an enhancement of Thai-China friendship. 

Moreover, the Thailand Board of Investment also hailed this partnership, noting it is a big boost to Thailand's EV sector.

Changan Chairman Zhu Huarong stated that this plant is an integral component of the company's strategy to transition from car exports to fully operating in foreign markets. 

He further stated that Changan is dedicated to establishing local supply chains and providing intelligent, green cars to respond to growing EV demand.

Furthermore , Changan aims to introduce 12 new energy vehicle (NEV) models in Southeast Asia within the next three years. 

It will also establish a giant warehouse of car parts capable of delivering within 24 hours.