ChangAn Expands Global Horizons with New Thailand Electric Vehicle Plant

ChangAn Automobile, a leader in intelligent low-carbon mobility technologies, recently celebrated a significant milestone in its global expansion strategy with the official opening of its first international production facility for New Energy Vehicles (NEV) in Rayong, Thailand. This event marked not only the commencement of manufacturing at this state-of-the-art facility but also coincided with the landmark of producing its 28.59 millionth vehicle. Furthermore, it commemorated the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Thailand, highlighting the importance of this venture.

A Vision for Global Leadership

Mr. Zhu Huarong, the President of ChangAn Automobile, emphasized the company's commitment to transforming this factory into a global benchmark for automotive manufacturing. He stated, “Our goal is to ensure sustainable mobility and improve human life through localized, long-term growth and low-carbon operations.” Recognizing the current challenges posed by anti-globalization sentiment, ChangAn remains steadfast in its “Vast Ocean” plan, aimed at pursuing global expansion.

The “Vast Ocean” strategy focuses on establishing a robust international presence across five major regions, helping ChangAn strive towards becoming a globally recognized automotive brand. The company has made impressive strides in innovation, filing over 14,000 patents in just three years, with 70% being inventions. On average, this translates to an astounding 19 patents per workday, reasserting ChangAn’s leadership in research and development.

Expanding Manufacturing Footprint

The company is not only focused on patents but is also actively cultivating local talent by prioritizing professionalism, youth, internationalization, and market orientation. ChangAn's industrial footprint now encompasses 20 planned factories, with nine KD assembly plants and one complete vehicle factory currently operational. Moreover, they plan to launch 22 brand marketing campaigns across Southeast Asia, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa, ensuring wide accessibility with over 9,000 sales points worldwide.

ChangAn’s ESG investments exceed 30 million yuan annually, underscoring its commitment to public welfare globally.

Record-Breaking Growth and Future Strategies

Since the launch of the “Vast Ocean” strategy in 2023, ChangAn has experienced accelerated international growth, breaking overseas sales records in 2024. With the recent factory launch in Rayong, the company aims to enhance the quality of its worldwide products and services while expanding its reach rapidly.

In Southeast Asia and Oceania, the company has tailored its focus to markets where right-hand driving is the norm. Construction on the Rayong facility began in November 2023, with mass production commencing in May 2025. The DEEPAL S05 electric vehicle was among the new models showcased during the Bangkok International Motor Show 2025, spotlighting the plant's integrated shift from product exportation to complete industrial exportation.

Moreover, in Latin America, ChangAn organized a brand conference on July 23, 2024, streamlining its product deployment to meet diverse local needs, while in the Middle East and Africa, the launch of the brand in September 2024 introduced six new energy models. The strategy involves establishing local subsidiaries, joint ventures, and expanding service offerings across these regions.

In Europe, the establishment of a design center in Turin back in 2001 set the groundwork for ChangAn's renewed commitment to sustainable mobility. The brand's recent launch in Germany on March 21, 2025, further solidifies its dedication to localized R&D and the strategy of “In Europe, for Europe.”

As ChangAn moves forward, it aims to elevate its international markets to be on par with its Chinese presence, aspiring to scale its global market capacity from 30 million to 50 million vehicles, while expediting localization in these regions. Plans to expand production will include 11 KD projects in nations like Kazakhstan and Egypt, targeting an international capacity of 500,000 vehicles annually.

In summary, ChangAn Toyota's launch of the Rayong facility not only marks a notable advancement in its global growth plans but also sets a significant precedent for the future of sustainable mobility and international collaboration in the automotive industry.