ChangAn Begins International NEV Manufacturing in Thailand, Paving the Way for Global Expansion
ChangAn Opens International NEV Manufacturing Plant in Thailand
In a significant development, ChangAn Automobile has launched its first international manufacturing base for New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) in Rayong, Thailand. This momentous event marks a pivotal point in the company’s strategy to implement its Vast Ocean Plan, which aims to bolster global operations by transitioning from mere product exports to a comprehensive export of industrial ecosystems.
This new plant embodies ChangAn’s commitment to sustainable automotive solutions, featuring advanced manufacturing systems, rigorous research and development processes, and a robust supply chain model. The establishment of this facility not only enhances operational efficiency but also serves as a template for green and intelligent manufacturing practices worldwide.
During the inauguration, ChangAn celebrated the assembly of its 28.59 millionth vehicle, the DEEPAL S05, tailored for right-hand drive markets. This milestone is a testament to the company's relentless pursuit of excellence and its goal of equating its five key overseas markets—Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Africa, Central and South America, Europe, and Eurasia—with its domestic Chinese market.
The Rayong factory spans approximately 245 rai (392,000 square meters) and comprises five workshops, including those dedicated to welding, painting, general assembly, engine, and battery assembly. To emphasize its commitment to sustainability, the facility has been designed as an energy-efficient and eco-friendly plant. It incorporates features such as optimized natural light, photovoltaic systems, and rainwater recycling, successfully reducing energy consumption per vehicle by about 20%.
Advanced automation processes and adaptive transport systems are integral to the production line, ensuring efficiency while maintaining high product quality to meet diverse market needs. ChangAn aims to produce CHANG-AN, DEEPAL, and AVATR brands in this facility, with expectations to double the annual production capacity from 100,000 to 200,000 units by 2027.
ChangAn's Vast Ocean Plan is aligned with global automotive industry trends, and the Rayong factory signifies a major step in its international footprint. The company has already established brands in Mexico, Saudi Arabia, and Germany. Since launching its brand initiative in Southeast Asia in November 2023, it has introduced seven new models to the Thai market, including DEEPAL S07, E07, and AVATR 11, collectively surpassing total sales of 14,000 units, making it one of the top four NEV brands in Thailand.
Having drawn on 41 years of automotive manufacturing experience, the Rayong plant amalgamates ChangAn's legacy with local operations, setting a global standard for international talent development. This facility serves as the foundation for replicating ChangAn's global manufacturing standards and establishes a best practices model for international operations. It highlights four key areas, employing ChangAn's CPS lean manufacturing system focused on leadership, productivity, and performance.
The integration of seven operational systems and six key processes underpins the company’s lean management strategy, affirming its commitment to excellence. Through the CAPDS system, the plant strengthens technical support and engineering development in Southeast Asia, prioritizing new energy, intelligent systems, adaptive design, and fostering regional product innovation.
ChangAn's Rayong plant, built on the CA-PLS framework, stands out as the company’s first international facility that standardizes production management and expedites product launches. It represents an innovative and resilient dual-circulation supply chain that connects China and Thailand.
Zhu Huarong, Chairman of ChangAn Automobile, described the event as a monumental leap from exporting cars to establishing a local ecosystem. Despite the challenges posed by anti-globalization, ChangAn remains dedicated to its Vast Ocean Plan, contributing significantly to Thailand's economic and social development and advancing the global automotive industry.