ChangAn's Electric Leap: Thailand's New Automotive Frontier
May 23, 2025, 11:42 pm

Location: China, Chongqing, Wanzhou
Employees: 1001-5000
Founded date: 2018
Total raised: $1.52B
In the heart of Rayong, Thailand, a new chapter in automotive history is unfolding. ChangAn Automobile, a titan in the electric vehicle (EV) landscape, has officially launched production at its first international new energy vehicle factory. This momentous event, marked by the rollout of the 28.59-millionth vehicle, signifies more than just a factory opening. It represents a strategic pivot towards sustainable mobility and a commitment to global expansion.
ChangAn's factory is not merely a production site; it is a beacon of innovation. Spanning 245 rai (approximately 392,000 square meters), the facility is designed with a "green and intelligent" ethos. It harnesses daylight, utilizes solar power, and incorporates water recycling systems. This eco-friendly approach reduces energy consumption per vehicle by around 20%. The factory is a testament to ChangAn's dedication to sustainability, reflecting a broader trend in the automotive industry towards greener practices.
Thailand is no stranger to the automotive sector. It stands as Southeast Asia's largest automobile manufacturer and exporter, contributing 10-11% to its GDP. The Thai government is keen on fostering the electric vehicle industry, aiming for 30% of total automobile production to be electric by 2030. ChangAn's investment of 10 billion baht into the Rayong plant aligns perfectly with this vision, responding to the surging demand for electric vehicles in Thailand and the ASEAN region.
The factory's capabilities are impressive. It features five main workshops, including welding, painting, and assembly lines for engines and batteries. Advanced automation and digital simulations enhance production efficiency, allowing for flexibility in meeting diverse market demands. The future looks bright, with production capacity expected to double from 100,000 vehicles annually to 200,000 by 2027.
ChangAn's commitment to localization is evident. The company adheres to the principle of "In Thailand, For Thailand." A Thai spare parts warehouse will be established, serving as a global right-hand-drive parts center. This initiative aims for 98% satisfaction and 24-hour delivery, showcasing ChangAn's dedication to local partnerships and customer service.
The launch of the Rayong factory is a significant milestone in ChangAn's Vast Ocean Plan. This strategy aims to elevate five major international markets—Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Africa, Central and South America, Europe, and Eurasia—to the same strategic level as its home market in China. By exporting entire industrial ecosystems rather than just products, ChangAn is setting a new standard in the automotive industry.
The factory is not just about production; it is about creating jobs and fostering economic growth. ChangAn anticipates generating over 30,000 jobs through its operations and social responsibility initiatives. This investment in human capital is crucial for Thailand's economic development and aligns with the country's goals for sustainable growth.
The Rayong factory also serves as a hub for technological innovation. ChangAn has filed over 14,000 patents in the past three years, with 70% of these being for inventions. This robust research and development capability positions ChangAn as a leader in the electric vehicle market. The company is not just manufacturing cars; it is creating a future where technology and sustainability go hand in hand.
The factory's launch coincides with ChangAn's recent successes in the Thai market. Since establishing its Southeast Asia brand initiative in November 2023, the company has introduced seven new models, including the DEEPAL S07, E07, and AVATR 11. Cumulative sales have exceeded 14,000 units, placing ChangAn among the top four in Thailand's NEV market. This rapid growth underscores the company's ability to adapt and thrive in a competitive landscape.
ChangAn's vision extends beyond Thailand. The company is building a robust global production network, with operations already established in countries like Kazakhstan and Egypt. It has launched its brand in 22 countries across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, supported by over 9,000 sales outlets worldwide. This expansive reach is a testament to ChangAn's ambition and strategic foresight.
As the automotive industry grapples with challenges such as anti-globalization, ChangAn remains steadfast in its commitment to the Vast Ocean Plan. The company views its expansion as a means to contribute to the economic and social development of its host countries. By fostering mutually beneficial cooperation, ChangAn aims to drive the global auto industry forward.
In conclusion, ChangAn's new factory in Rayong is more than just a manufacturing site; it is a symbol of progress. It embodies the future of electric vehicles and sustainable manufacturing. As Thailand positions itself as a Southeast Asian EV hub, ChangAn is leading the charge. The road ahead is paved with innovation, collaboration, and a shared vision for a greener future. This is just the beginning of a remarkable journey in the world of electric mobility.
ChangAn's factory is not merely a production site; it is a beacon of innovation. Spanning 245 rai (approximately 392,000 square meters), the facility is designed with a "green and intelligent" ethos. It harnesses daylight, utilizes solar power, and incorporates water recycling systems. This eco-friendly approach reduces energy consumption per vehicle by around 20%. The factory is a testament to ChangAn's dedication to sustainability, reflecting a broader trend in the automotive industry towards greener practices.
Thailand is no stranger to the automotive sector. It stands as Southeast Asia's largest automobile manufacturer and exporter, contributing 10-11% to its GDP. The Thai government is keen on fostering the electric vehicle industry, aiming for 30% of total automobile production to be electric by 2030. ChangAn's investment of 10 billion baht into the Rayong plant aligns perfectly with this vision, responding to the surging demand for electric vehicles in Thailand and the ASEAN region.
The factory's capabilities are impressive. It features five main workshops, including welding, painting, and assembly lines for engines and batteries. Advanced automation and digital simulations enhance production efficiency, allowing for flexibility in meeting diverse market demands. The future looks bright, with production capacity expected to double from 100,000 vehicles annually to 200,000 by 2027.
ChangAn's commitment to localization is evident. The company adheres to the principle of "In Thailand, For Thailand." A Thai spare parts warehouse will be established, serving as a global right-hand-drive parts center. This initiative aims for 98% satisfaction and 24-hour delivery, showcasing ChangAn's dedication to local partnerships and customer service.
The launch of the Rayong factory is a significant milestone in ChangAn's Vast Ocean Plan. This strategy aims to elevate five major international markets—Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Africa, Central and South America, Europe, and Eurasia—to the same strategic level as its home market in China. By exporting entire industrial ecosystems rather than just products, ChangAn is setting a new standard in the automotive industry.
The factory is not just about production; it is about creating jobs and fostering economic growth. ChangAn anticipates generating over 30,000 jobs through its operations and social responsibility initiatives. This investment in human capital is crucial for Thailand's economic development and aligns with the country's goals for sustainable growth.
The Rayong factory also serves as a hub for technological innovation. ChangAn has filed over 14,000 patents in the past three years, with 70% of these being for inventions. This robust research and development capability positions ChangAn as a leader in the electric vehicle market. The company is not just manufacturing cars; it is creating a future where technology and sustainability go hand in hand.
The factory's launch coincides with ChangAn's recent successes in the Thai market. Since establishing its Southeast Asia brand initiative in November 2023, the company has introduced seven new models, including the DEEPAL S07, E07, and AVATR 11. Cumulative sales have exceeded 14,000 units, placing ChangAn among the top four in Thailand's NEV market. This rapid growth underscores the company's ability to adapt and thrive in a competitive landscape.
ChangAn's vision extends beyond Thailand. The company is building a robust global production network, with operations already established in countries like Kazakhstan and Egypt. It has launched its brand in 22 countries across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, supported by over 9,000 sales outlets worldwide. This expansive reach is a testament to ChangAn's ambition and strategic foresight.
As the automotive industry grapples with challenges such as anti-globalization, ChangAn remains steadfast in its commitment to the Vast Ocean Plan. The company views its expansion as a means to contribute to the economic and social development of its host countries. By fostering mutually beneficial cooperation, ChangAn aims to drive the global auto industry forward.
In conclusion, ChangAn's new factory in Rayong is more than just a manufacturing site; it is a symbol of progress. It embodies the future of electric vehicles and sustainable manufacturing. As Thailand positions itself as a Southeast Asian EV hub, ChangAn is leading the charge. The road ahead is paved with innovation, collaboration, and a shared vision for a greener future. This is just the beginning of a remarkable journey in the world of electric mobility.