Chinese carmaker Changan Automobile is establishing its first comprehensive overseas electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing plant in Rayong, Thailand. The factory represents a strategic move to penetrate the ASEAN market with an initial investment of over 10 billion baht on a 250-rai plot of land. Phase one is projected to produce up to 100,000 vehicles per year, with a phase two goal of 200,000 annually.
Thailand was chosen for its strategic location, positioning it as a gateway to ASEAN and a springboard to the Australian and New Zealand markets. Changan also aims to make Thailand the global hub for right-hand-drive (RHD) vehicle production.
According to Changan President Zhu Huarong, the plant emphasizes sustainability and innovation. It will feature advanced manufacturing processes, eco-friendly systems, and cutting-edge technology. The facility will utilize both robotic automation and semi-automation to produce diverse vehicle models simultaneously.
Operations and management will be fully supported by a 100% online system, reducing delivery times from 21 days to just 15. The factory is also designed with high-efficiency, low-emission equipment and solar energy integration, which is expected to cut energy costs by 20%.
Within the next three years, Changan plans to launch 12 new EV models in ASEAN. It also aims to establish a parts warehouse for the RHD market, capable of storing 98% of all parts and ensuring 24-hour delivery.